Check out my family recipe for the traditional Polish pasta dish called Lazanki. This comfort food is one of my childhood favorites—easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner. All you need is some sauerkraut, kielbasa sausage, mushrooms, and square pasta. If you can’t find Lazanki pasta, don’t worry! You can easily substitute it with fresh lasagne sheets—just cut them into small squares. Trust me, once you taste this recipe, it will become a favorite in your household too. Give it a try and enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of Lazanki! Smacznego!
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What is Lazanki?
Lazanki is a traditional Polish pasta dish made with square-shaped pasta, sauerkraut, and often combined with mushrooms, onions, and smoked sausage. This hearty and flavorful dish dates back to the 16th century, when it was popular among the Polish gentry. Over the centuries, it became a staple in Polish homes, beloved for its simplicity, versatility, and comforting flavors.
As a classic example of Polish comfort food, Lazanki showcases the country’s rich culinary heritage and the use of humble ingredients like cabbage and pasta, which are central to many Polish dishes. It is enjoyed throughout the year and is especially popular during festive seasons like Christmas. Whether made with a basic combination of pasta and cabbage or enriched with meats and mushrooms, Lazanki remains a cherished part of Poland’s culinary tradition, reflecting its history and love for hearty, satisfying meals.
Regional Variations of Lazanki
There are many variations of Lazanki across different regions of Poland, each adding its unique twist to this beloved dish. For example, in the eastern regions of Poland, it is common to add fried cabbage, which gives the dish a slightly sweet and caramelized flavor. In the western parts of the country, tomato paste is often incorporated, adding a hint of tanginess and a rich, red color to the dish.
In addition to these regional differences, many households have their own special touches. Some families prefer to use fresh cabbage instead of sauerkraut, offering a milder flavor and a softer texture. The use of fresh cabbage can make Lazanki lighter and more suited for those who prefer a less tangy taste. Other popular variations include adding ingredients like bacon for a smoky depth, cheese for creaminess, or even a dollop of sour cream to bring a richer and tangier dimension to the dish.
Lazanki in Festive Celebrations
Lazanki is not just an everyday comfort food; it also holds a special place in Polish holiday traditions. It is often served during the Christmas season, especially as part of the traditional Wigilia (Christmas Eve) dinner. During this festive occasion, Poles prepare Lazanki with mushrooms, cabbage, and sometimes with poppy seeds, reflecting the simplicity and humility that the Christmas Eve meal represents. The dish’s warming, hearty qualities make it perfect for the cold winter months and a favorite during family gatherings and celebrations.
Beyond Christmas, Lazanki is enjoyed during other special occasions and is a beloved dish for communal and family meals throughout the year. Its popularity isn’t confined to Poland alone; the dish is also well-known in other Eastern European countries such as Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia. In these countries, similar versions of the dish exist, often under different names, but retaining the same core elements of pasta, cabbage, and mushrooms. This widespread popularity highlights Lazanki’s role as a comforting, versatile dish that transcends borders, adapting to various local ingredients and culinary traditions across Eastern Europe.
Polish Sausages Perfect for Lazanki
When preparing Lazanki, the type of Polish sausage you choose can greatly influence the flavor of the dish. Here are some traditional Polish sausages that work perfectly:
- Kiełbasa Toruńska: A milder, slightly spiced sausage, Toruńska is typically smoked and made from finely ground pork. It has a delicate flavor and tender texture, which blends well with the tanginess of sauerkraut and the earthiness of mushrooms, enhancing the overall harmony of the dish.
- Kiełbasa Krakowska: Known for its firm texture and smoky flavor, this sausage originates from Kraków and is made from high-quality pork seasoned with pepper, garlic, and nutmeg. It’s often served cold, but its rich, smoky profile makes it an excellent addition to Łazanki, providing a savory, well-rounded flavor.
- Kiełbasa Podwawelska: A popular smoked sausage, Podwawelska is mildly seasoned and has a smooth texture. It’s versatile and works well in various dishes, adding a delicate smokiness and a slight sweetness to Łazanki.
How to Make Lazanki: Step-by-Step Instructions:
Authentic Lazanki – Polish Pasta with Savory Cabbage & Sausage
Equipment:
- 1 Hybrid Non Stick Frying Pan
- 1 Colander
- 1 Medium sized pot
Ingredients:
- 400 g Lazanki pasta - (You can use any other type of square pasta, cut fresh lasagne sheets or pappardelle works good as well)
- 350 g Polish Smoked Sausage - Kielbasa
- 300 g Sauerkraut
- 300 g White cabbage
- 200 g White mushrooms
- 2 Onions - medium sized, small dice
- 5 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 2 Bay leaves
- 2 Allspice Berries - (They add a beautiful aroma to the dish)
- Black pepper - to taste
- Salt - to taste
Instructions:
- To begin, place sauerkraut, bay leaves, and allspice in a medium pot and add enough water to cover the contents. You may also use water from the jar. Cook for 20 minutes, then drain the sauerkraut and set it aside to cool.
- In a large frying pan, preheat vegetable oil over high heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, approximately 5 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a plate, but keep the oil in the pan.
- Reduce heat to medium and add diced onions. Fry until translucent, around 5 minutes, then add mushrooms and increase the heat. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Next, add diced cabbage and continue cooking for another 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to medium.
- Once the sauerkraut has cooled, chop it up and add it to the pan. Add fried sausage and combine all ingredients.
- Cook pasta until al dente, then add it to the pan and combine. Season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Smacznego!
Notes:
- Pasta Choice: While traditional Lazanki is made with specific square pasta called Lazanki, you can use Lasagne sheets cut into squares instead. If not available you can still prepare this dish with any pasta you have on hand.
- Mushroom Varieties: If you’re looking to elevate the earthy flavours of this dish, consider incorporating wild mushrooms. Varieties like porcini (also known as cep) or boletus can be a fantastic addition, offering a robust and deep flavour profile.
- Sauerkraut Draining: Ensure the sauerkraut is well-drained after cooking to prevent the dish from becoming overly watery.
- Sausage Varieties: While smoked sausages like kielbasa are recommended, feel free to use any type of sausage. For a vegetarian twist, you can even omit the sausage altogether.
- Serving Temperature: This dish is versatile, suitable for serving both hot or cold. It’s an excellent choice for leftovers or meal prepping.
- Garnishing: Enhance the dish’s flavour and texture by topping it with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
Nutrition:
From the Chef
I hope you enjoyed this delicious Polish dish. Drop a comment below to let me know how you liked Lazanki Pasta!
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Very good
Very nice