A Healthier Alternative To Tradition

A Healthier Alternative To Tradition

~Blog Post #4~

April 20, 2015

By: Sierra Kepski

The Roman Catholic rituals of feasting and fasting, introduced to Poland around A.D. 900, have had a strong influence on Polish tradition, especially because they give Poles the opportunity to come together in a huge family gathering and eat mounds of food. The feasting on fatty or sugary dishes could be seen as an unhealthy aspect in many other cultures. However, many healthy meatless and fish dishes are also popular and offered during the days of fasting. Also, most of the Polish dishes served today have a large variety of vegetables to eat, which gives this cuisine an even healthier alternative to traditional meals.

Poles like to eat hearty, filling meals, consisting of many dishes we would consider "comfort foods" in America today. When they first wake up, they eat a large breakfast consisting of many foods similar to an American breakfast. This rather large meal will keep them full until a light brunch, or "second breakfast" is eaten in the midday. This meal consists of sandwiches, soups, or salads, much like the American lunch. The main meal of the day is served in the late afternoon. Dishes served during this meal include meats, boiled vegetables, dumplings, and, of course, soup. This meal is followed by desert, typically a type of cake. The last meal of the day is a light supper served later in the evening. It includes a hot or cold main dish, pickled vegetables, a dessert, and hot tea. 

Although the Polish diet may appear to be unhealthy to some, I believe any cuisine can be unhealthy depending on the portion moderation. If people choose wisely on what to eat and how much of it to eat, anyone can have a rather healthy diet. Once again, the Poles take pride in their comfort foods and look to their cuisine to keep their family happy and healthy. Just like in "Like Water For Chocolate", this food brings families close together, whether it be for a holiday or an average Sunday dinner.