Some of Poland’s most endearing experiences are edible and drinkable. To savor this delicious dimension of Polish culture, I’m joined by my friend and fellow tour guide, Tomasz Klimek.
Rick: Every time I travel in Poland, it seems vodka is quite important. What does vodka mean to Poland?

Tomasz: Vodka is definitely our national drink. We take it very seriously. We’re very proud of it. Polish vodka is a brand that is renowned all over the world and we do take our vodka very seriously.

Rick: So Polish vodka, does that mean Polish ingredients?

Tomasz: Polish vodka has to be not only made in Poland but made from Polish local ingredients. And those could be either potatoes, so we have potato vodka or grain.

Rick: So is this potatoes or grain?

Tomasz: This one is grain vodka.

Rick: Which do you like better?

Tomasz: I like grain better. That’s my favorite.

Rick: So is there a ritual for drinking it in a pub or a bar?

Tomasz: Yes, there is. When we celebrate, we drink it with our friends, and we do mainly the shots.

Tomasz: And we don’t sip it like this, we just do the bottoms up.

Rick: Is that right, no sipping?

Tomasz: No sipping.

Rick: What if I sip, what do people think?

Tomasz: Well, if you want to be really local, you better do the bottoms up.

Rick: Okay, so really, just throw it right down.

Tomasz: Exactly.

Rick: And how do you say toast?

Tomasz: Na zdrowia.

Rick: Na zdrowia.

Tomasz: And bottoms up.

Rick: Ah.

Tomasz: Yes!

For dinner, Tomasz has promised to teach me how to make me a classic Polish dish at his house. A dish that all Polish grandmas make…I’m learning how to cook pierogi!

First you knead the potato dough to just the right texture…

Tomasz: It’s very relaxing. It’s like going to a spa for your body and soul.

Rick: Is grandma looking down?

Tomasz: I hope she is.

Then you roll it out—flat as a Polish crepe.

Tomasz: You want it as thin as possible. Our dough is generally flavorless. What gives flavor to our dish is the filling and topping…

And cut out small discs.

Tomasz: Beautiful.

Making cute little pockets, you tuck in the cheese, onion, and meat filling…then seal it water-tight around the edges.

Tomasz: Your first pieróg. Congratulations!

Tomasz: And we just wait for them to float.

After a short boiling bath, they’re ready to eat. In true family style, we enjoy a little sunshine in the backyard and a classic Polish meal…just like Grandma…or Babcia used to make!

Rick: Dziękuję, Babciu.

Tomasz: Dziękuję, Babciu, yes. I hope she’s proud.