Polish Influences

Cześć! I chose Poland because of my heritage invested in this culture. In my family we often eat  Polish cuisines: Pierogies and Paczki. Poland is largely Catholic and follow fasting and feasting traditions which impact their diet in some way. For example, many meatless and fish dishes are a big part in traditional cooking.

  More than 1/2 of Poland's land is used for farming. This farming is majorly cereal grains such as rye, wheat, barley, and buckwheat. The country is also located in a cool barren climate zone in the winter which is why most traditional polish meals can be preserved and stored for 3-4 months(peas, beans, grains). These dishes are especially focused on the pickling and drying processes. It is also why soup is a dish of choice because it is easy to make and warms during colder months along with other hearty meals. 

Poland is also located between two powerful neighbors which are Germany and Russia. In fact, there have been many instances through history of other countries' influences on the Polish culture. One of these being the marriage of one king to Italian Princess Bona Sforza in the 16th century which brought some Italian influences like salad. Hungry, France, and the Ukraine have also influenced Polish dishes as they are similarly related Slavic Countries. Another geographical impact is the Baltic Sea. Over the course of history Poland has lost and gained access to this body of water which is why many Polish cuisines consist of freshwater fish.

"Food in Every Country." Food in Poland. Advameg, Inc., 2015. Web. 23 Apr. 2015. <http://www.foodbycountry.com/Kazakhstan-to-South-Africa/Poland.html>.

Image: ML Team. "Midtown Lunch." Midtown Lunch RSS. Midtown Lunch, 14 Mar. 2013. Web. 23 Apr. 2015. <http://midtownlunch.com/2013/03/14/old-traditional-polish-cuisine-food-truck-hits-midtown/>.