17 Polish Recipes That Will Make You Feel Like a Local

Poland’s cuisine is a rich blend of comforting, traditional, and hearty flavors that have been shaped by the country’s history and the influences of its European neighbors. Polish food is well-known for its emphasis on meat, vegetables, herbs, and spices, and it may seem familiar even if one has never tried it before.

From the world-renowned pierogi to the lesser-known but equally delicious bigos (hunter’s stew), Polish dishes are a testament to the country’s culinary tradition and its ability to transform simple ingredients into unforgettable meals.

Kapusty z Lazank

A brown bowl full of haluski, egg noodles with bacon and onion and cabbage. Slices of kielbasa are on top.
Photo Credit: Envato Elements.

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Caramelized bacon and onions are sauteed with fresh cabbage and then tossed with egg noodles, which are also allowed to get just a little crispy on the edges. Add kielbasa if you wish. This is so simple but incredibly tasty and comforting, in America they call this haluski.

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Golumpki (Gołąbki, Stuffed Cabbage)

Cabbage rolls.
Photo Credit: Envato Elements.

Polish cabbage rolls, also known as “golabki,” are a traditional dish made with cooked cabbage leaves wrapped around a filling of ground meat, rice, and spices. The rolls are then baked in a tomato-based sauce until tender and flavorful. They are a popular comfort food in Poland and are enjoyed around the world for their hearty and satisfying taste.

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Polish Borscht

Polish Borscht.
Photo Credit: Envato Elements.

Borscht is a popular dish in Poland and across much of Central and Eastern Europe. It is made with beetroot as the main ingredient. It is a soup that is typically served hot and can be prepared in a variety of ways, depending on the region and personal preference.

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Sausage & Sauerkraut

The finished bratwurst and sauerkraut skillet ready to serve.
Photo Credit: Envato Elements.

Use Polish kielbasa in this recipe and make one of the most popular — and easiest — one-pan dinners around. The whole family will love this and you can even serve this dish on hot dog buns.

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Beet Kvass

Chopped beets in mason jar for making kvass.
Photo Credit: The Peasant’s Daughter.

A health tonic that is also a traditional ingredient in many borscht recipes. Try this simple and complex ferment.

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Best Polish Goulash (Authentic Pork Stew)

Polish goulash.
Photo Credit: Go Cook Yummy.

Polish Goulash is a delicious pork stew that is full of authentic flavor. To make this mouth-watering “goulasz,” you will need pork meat, carrots, onions, tomatoes, and a few spices. The sauce is simply divine, and the dish requires minimal attention while being incredibly easy to prepare.

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Polish Mushroom Soup (Zupa Grzybowa)

A bowl of zupa grzybowa, or Polish mushroom soup, adorned with a sprinkle of chopped dill.
Photo Credit: Wholly Tasteful.

Warm up with a hearty bowl of this earthy and flavorful mushroom soup, a classic in Polish kitchens. It’s simple to make, filled with wholesome ingredients, and perfect for a cozy night in.

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Traditional European Sauerkraut

An assortment of sauerkrauts made in jars, including purple cabbage sauerkraut.
Photo Credit: The Peasant’s Daughter.

Saurkraut was popularized in Germany but has become a big part of Central and European culinary traditions. Sauerkraut is eaten cooked and raw and was once made by each family in huge batches to last the winter.

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Polish Chicken Soup {Authentic Rosół Recipe}

A bowl of Polish chicken soup or Rosół, served with egg noodles, freshly cooked tender chicken pieces, and carrot slices, sprinkled with chopped parsley leaves and black peppercorns.
Photo Credit: Wholly Tasteful.

Experience comfort in a bowl with this authentic Polish chicken soup, known as Rosół. Made with a nourishing broth and tender chicken, it’s a timeless recipe that brings warmth and tradition to your table.

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Polish Hunter’s Stew

A bowl of Polish hunter's stew with a spoon, garnished with fresh parsley, accompanied by two forks, and one torn bread placed on the side of the bowl.
Photo Credit: Recipe Mash.

Dive into a robust culinary adventure with this savory hunter’s stew, marrying the rich flavors of meat, vegetables, and spices. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that speaks to the soul.

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Polish Bean Stew (With Cabanossi Sausage)

A bowl of Polish bean stew with cabanossi sausage, garnished with fresh basil.
Photo Credit: Where Is My Spoon.

Indulge in the comforting goodness of this Polish bean stew featuring cabanossi sausage. Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a flavorful and filling option for a satisfying meal.

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Polish Cucumber Salad

Polish cucumber salad.
Photo Credit: Envato Elements.

Polish cucumber salad is creamy and refreshing. The dill makes it anything but bland — use lots of it!

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Roasted Buckwheat With Mushrooms – Polish Kasha

Roasted buckwheat with mushrooms or Polish kasha, served in a bowl, garnished with chopped dill and parsley.
Photo Credit: Where Is My Spoon.

Elevate your dinner with this wholesome roasted buckwheat dish, known as Polish Kasha. The earthy flavors of buckwheat and mushrooms come together for a simple yet delightful Polish staple.

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Polish Cake With Meringue – Tort Bezowy

Polish cake with meringue or Tort Bezowy, placed on a cake plate, sprinkled with unsweetened cocoa powder on top.
Photo Credit: Where Is My Spoon.

Treat yourself to a slice of heaven with this Polish cake featuring a luscious meringue. It’s a delightful dessert that balances sweetness and elegance, perfect for any special occasion.

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Polish Dumplings (Potato Pierogi) Recipe

A plate of Polish dumplings or potato pierogi served with a condiment bowl filled with sour cream and sprinkled with chopped green onion stems.
Photo Credit: Platter Talk.

Delight in the authentic taste of Polish cuisine with these homemade potato pierogi. With a tender dough and flavorful potato filling, they’re a timeless favorite that brings joy to every bite.

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Kolaczki Cookies (Polish Cream Cheese Cookies)

Polish cream cheese cookies or Kolaczki cookies with fruit filling, sprinkled with powdered sugar, served on a plate.
Photo Credit: Feast For a Fraction.

Experience the charm of these Polish cream cheese cookies, known as Kolaczki. With a delicate pastry and delightful fruit filling, they’re a sweet treat that’s both simple and irresistible.

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Sernik Polish Cheesecake

A slice of Polish cheesecake or sernik, served on a plate.
Photo Credit: LikeHotKeto.

Indulge your sweet tooth with a slice of Sernik, the beloved Polish cheesecake. With its creamy texture and subtle sweetness, it’s a dessert that captures the essence of Polish culinary tradition.

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German Recipes

A plate of crispy breaded pork cutlets with a rich bacon and mushroom gravy poured over top.
Photo Credit: The Forked Spoon.

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Slovak & Czech Recipes

A shallow and ornate white bowl full of Segedinsky gulas and tender pork shoulder pieces with sauerkraut.
Photo Credit: The Peasant’s Daughter.

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