Zapiekanka

Zapiekanka is a traditional Polish street food that has been popular since the 1970s. It is a type of open-faced sandwich made from a half of a baguette or other long roll of bread, topped with sautéed white mushrooms, cheese and sometimes other ingredients, and toasted until the cheese melts. It is then often topped with ketchup and served hot.

History

The Zapiekanka originated in the 1970s during the Polish communist era. It was a quick and cheap way to feed the masses and quickly became a popular street food. The name "Zapiekanka" comes from "zapiekac," a Polish word which means "to bake a dish so that its ingredients combine, and a crispy, browned crust forms on top."

Ingredients and Preparation

The base of a Zapiekanka is a half of a long roll or baguette. The bread is topped with sautéed mushrooms and cheese, typically a type that melts well such as mozzarella or cheddar. Other common toppings include ham, salami, vegetables, or canned fish. The sandwich is then toasted until the cheese is melted and bubbly. After toasting, it is often topped with ketchup, mayonnaise, garlic sauce, or chives. Some modern variations also include other ingredients like feta cheese, spinach, and chicken.

Cultural Significance

Zapiekanka is a symbol of the communist-era Poland and is still a popular street food today. It is commonly sold at small food stalls, especially in larger cities. The largest and most famous place to buy Zapiekanka in Poland is probably the Plac Nowy in Kraków, where numerous vendors sell their own versions of the dish.

See Also

• Polish cuisine
• Street food
• Sandwich

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  Zapiekanka with mushrooms and cheese
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  Close-up of a zapiekanka
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  Zapiekanka in Warsaw
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  Zapiekanki at Plac Nowy, Kraków