Is garlic more of a spice or a medicine in Poland?
Well, I would say both, but the strong belief in the medical aspects of garlic overshadows its popularity in culinary use. Still, we do spice up a lot of food with this ingredient although we are not as devoted to it as for example the French. Like with other spices, it’s hard to list a concrete and final index of dishes where garlic is a definite “must have” in traditional Polish food recipes. It is all down to peoples preferences and creativity. Below are five ideas where this spice is a distinguished feature of the staple food.
Ideas of “garlic dishes” in Polish cuisine.
1. Pierogi z czosnkiem (Garlic Pierogi): Pierogi can be filled with a variety of ingredients, including garlic. The garlic filling is typically made by sautéing minced garlic with butter and then mixing it with mashed potatoes or cheese before stuffing it into the pierogi dough. These pierogi are then boiled and served with sour cream and fried onions.
2. Zupa czosnkowa (Garlic Soup): This traditional Polish soup is made with a base of chicken or beef broth, potatoes, and lots of garlic. The garlic is usually added towards the end of the cooking process, giving the soup a strong garlic flavor. It is often served with croutons or toasted bread.
3. Kiełbasa z czosnkiem (Garlic Sausage): Kiełbasa, a type of Polish sausage, is a staple in Polish cuisine. Garlic is often added to the meat mixture before stuffing it into casings, giving the sausage a savory and garlicky flavor. It can be served as a main dish or used in other dishes such as stews or soups.
4. Czosnek marynowany (Pickled Garlic): Pickled garlic is a popular condiment in Polish cuisine. Whole garlic cloves are pickled in a mixture of vinegar, water, and spices, resulting in a tangy and slightly spicy flavor. It is often served as a side dish or added to sandwiches and salads.
5. Czosnek na maśle (Garlic Butter): This simple yet delicious condiment is made by mixing minced garlic with softened butter. It is typically spread on bread or used as a topping for grilled meats and vegetables. It adds a rich and garlicky flavor to any dish.