How To Make Authentic Air Fryer Polish Food In Minutes
Are you a fan of Polish cuisine but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen? Welcome to traditional Polish cuisine made easy.
This blog covers classic Polish dishes and recreating them in the air fryer.
Remember, while these air fryer Polish recipes can be made in a shorter amount of time, they may still require some preparation.
However, they are great options for enjoying quick Polish meals in an air fryer without spending hours in the kitchen.
I remember my late father making these delicious recipes as a child and enjoying them.
Read more about Polish Cuisine and Culture blog.
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How To Cook Polish Sausage In The Air Fryer
Choosing the Right Polish Sausage (Kielbasa)
It’s essential to choose the right type of Polish sausage.
There are various options of Kielbasa (general term for Polish Sausage) available, such as Krakowska, Kabanos and Wiejska, each with its unique flavour.
Krakowska
This sausage is known for its lean and meaty consistency. The flavour of Krakowska is rich, mildly smoky, and slightly sweet. It is seasoned with a balanced mix of spices, including garlic, allspice, white pepper, and coriander which add to its distinct and savoury taste.
Kabanos
A popular Polish sausage that’s known for its slender shape and intense smoky flavour. Made from high-quality cuts of pork and veal, it is seasoned with a blend of spices, including garlic, black pepper, and caraway seeds. This sausage is air-dried, resulting in a firm and chewy texture, perfect for snacking or charcuterie boards.
Wiejska
A traditional smoked Polish sausage made from a combination of high-quality pork and beef, this sausage is seasoned with a mix of spices, including garlic, black pepper, and celery. With its firm texture and rich taste, Wiejska is a versatile sausage that can be enjoyed on its own, or added to a variety of dishes.
Consider your personal preferences and the dish you plan to make to select the perfect Polish sausage.
Preparing the Polish Sausage
To ensure even cooking, it’s important to prepare the Polish sausage before placing it in the air fryer.
Start by pricking the sausage with a fork to prevent it from bursting during the cooking process.
This allows the excess fat to escape and ensures a juicy and tender sausage.
How To Air Fry Polish Sausage
Place the prepared Polish sausage in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space between each sausage to allow for proper airflow and even cooking.
How Long To Cook Polish Sausage In The Air Fryer?
Air fry the sausage at 200C/ 400F for about 15 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they are browned on all sides.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the sausage reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety.
Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and type of sausage, so keep an eye on them and adjust accordingly.
This instant-read thermometer features a foldable long probe that makes it easy to check the internal temperature of meats without getting too close to the heat. The backlight display ensures you can read temperatures clearly, even in low light. Perfect for grilling, roasting, or air frying, this digital meat thermometer is a must-have tool for any cook.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you air fry frozen Polish sausage?
- Yes, you can cook frozen Polish sausage in the air fryer. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it is thoroughly heated.
Can I cook other types of sausages in the air fryer using the same method?
- Absolutely! The air fryer method works well for cooking various types of sausages, including Italian sausage, bratwurst, and chorizo. Adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed.
How Do I Store leftover cooked Polish sausage?
- Yes, you can store leftover cooked Polish sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the air fryer or microwave before enjoying it.
Do I use an oil spray on the sausage before cooking it in the air fryer?
- It is not necessary to use oil spray on the sausage since the air fryer cooks with hot air circulation. However, if you prefer a slightly crispier exterior, you can lightly brush or spray the sausage with oil before cooking.
Air Fryer Fresh Pierogies Recipe – Polish Dumplings
What Are Pierogies?
Pierogies are a type of dumpling that originated in Poland.
They are made with a dough filled with various ingredients, such as potatoes, cheese, meat, vegetables, or fruit.
Pierogies are served with a variety of toppings, such as sour cream, bacon, onions, or butter.
An authentic Polish dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Often served as an appetiser, side dish, or main course. A popular choice for parties and occasions.
With this easy Polish food recipe, you can make your pierogies at home and customise them to your taste.
Are you tired of buying frozen pierogies from the grocery store?
Why not try making your air fryer pierogies from scratch?
Not only is it easier than you think, but it’s also a delicious and healthy alternative to the frozen variety.
Polish comfort food in minutes. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Makes Approx 30
The exact number may vary depending on the thickness of the dough and the amount of filling used in each pierogi.
Pierogi Dough
- 250g plain flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 125ml sour cream
- 60 g unsalted butter, melted
Pierogi Filling
- 450g mashed potatoes
- 100g grated cheddar cheese
- 25g finely chopped onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings (optional)
- Sour cream
- Chopped bacon
- Chopped onions
- Butter
How to Make Pierogi Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, mix the flour and salt.
- Make a well in the centre and add the egg, sour cream, and melted butter. Mix well until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Wrap the dough in cling film and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Making Pierogi Filling
- In a mixing bowl, add the mashed potatoes, grated cheese, diced onions, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the ingredients until they are well combined.
How to Assemble the Pierogies
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is about 1/8 inch thick.
- Use a 3-inch round cookie cutter or glass to cut out circles of dough.
- Place a small spoonful of filling (about 1 teaspoon) onto each circle of dough.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and pinch the edges together to seal the pierogi.
- Repeat until all the dough and filling have been used up.
Cooking the Pierogies
- Preheat your air fryer to 190C / 380F.
- Arrange the pierogies in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Lightly spray the pierogies with cooking spray.
- Cook the pierogies for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with your favourite toppings.
Serving Suggestions
Pierogies are a versatile dish that can be served in many ways.
Here are some ideas for serving and toppings:
- Serve with sour cream, chopped bacon, and chopped onions for a classic Polish dish.
- Top with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil for an Italian twist.
- Serve with guacamole, salsa, and shredded cheese for a Mexican-inspired dish.
- Top with caramelized apples and cinnamon sugar for a sweet dessert pierogi.
Top Picks
This versatile set features an array of silver cutters in various shapes, ranging from **4 cm to 9 cm**, perfect for creating cookies, biscuits, and pastries.
This set is designed for both novice cooks and culinary enthusiasts, allowing you to create delicious dumplings, ravioli, and more with ease. 11 essential tools—6 different size rings for various dumpling sizes, 2 dumpling moulds, a cutter, and a stuffing spoon.
Measuring 15 cm (6 inches), this compact and versatile rolling pin is perfect for effortlessly rolling out dough for cookies, pastries, and more. The innovative polyethylene material ensures that your dough won’t stick, allowing for smooth rolling and easy release every time.
Tips and Tricks
- Use a mixer or food processor to make the pierogi dough, if you don’t want to knead it by hand.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more water. If it’s too wet, add a little more flour.
- Make sure to seal the pierogies tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
- You can freeze the uncooked pierogies for up to 3 months. To cook, air fry them for 10-12 minutes.
- Experiment with different fillings, such as sauerkraut, ground beef, mushrooms, or fruit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use different types of flour?
You can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour if you prefer.
What types of cheese can you use?
Use any type of cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, or feta.
Planning the pierogies ahead of time?
Make the pierogies up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Can I cook the pierogies in a traditional oven?
Bake the pierogies in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown.
Can you make Pierogies without a filling?
You can make plain pierogies and serve them with butter and salt.
How To Cook Air Fryer Frozen Pierogies
Preheat your air fryer to 200 C / 400 F for 8 minutes.
Place the frozen pierogies in a single layer into the air fryer basket. Do not overlap.
Spray with cooking oil and air fry at 200C / 400F for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
Remember to turn halfway through cooking time.
More Air Fryer Recipes
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Air Fryer Bigos Recipe – Hunter’s Stew
What is Bigos?
Polish Bigos is a combination of meat and sauerkraut.
Traditional recipes have a mixture of pork, beef, and game meats, such as venison or wild boar.
The sauerkraut adds a tangy and slightly sour flavour to the stew.
Additional ingredients like mushrooms, onions, dried plums, and spices enhance the complexity of the dish.
Ingredients
Serves 4-6
- 200g smoked bacon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 454g sauerkraut
- 300g smoked sausage eg: Polish Kielbasa, Kabanos or any smoked sausage
- 300g pork shoulder, cubed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, cubed
- 2 bay leaves
- 300 ml chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon of dried marjoram
- Salt and pepper to taste
- a handful of dried porcini mushrooms
- 2 tbsp tomato puree
- 2 tbsp of plum jam
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to prepare the ingredients.
Soak the mushrooms in cold water for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Rinse the sauerkraut to remove excess brine and drain it well or simply squeeze the excess out with your hands.
Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces and dice the pork shoulder.
Dice the onion, mince the garlic cloves, slice the carrots, and cube the potatoes.
Having everything prepped will make the cooking process much smoother.
Cooking Bigos in an Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- Place the diced bacon and pork shoulder into the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes until lightly browned. No need to add oil.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the basket, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, sauerkraut, bay leaves, plum jam, dried mushrooms, dried marjoram, pepper and stock. Mix well.
- Arrange the smoked sausage pieces on top of the mixture in the basket.
- Don’t add salt until the bigos is cooked as it can already be salty.
- Cook the bigos in the air fryer for approximately 25-30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bigos
To ensure your air fryer bigos turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Season the bigos well with pepper, and other preferred spices to bring out the flavour.
- Stir the ingredients occasionally during cooking.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and variations. Make it your own!
Serving and Enjoying Air Fryer Bigos
Once your air fryer Bigos is ready, it’s time to plate it and enjoy.
You can serve it with crusty bread and mashed potatoes, or simply enjoy it on its own.
The flavours will develop even further if you let the bigos rest for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs
Freezing leftover Bigos?
Yes, Bigos freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers or freezer bags. When reheating, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat.
How long does Bigos stay fresh?
Bigos can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. It improves with age. Store it in a sealed container to maintain its flavour and prevent any cross-contamination.
Using different types of meat in Bigos?
Absolutely! Bigos is versatile, and you can experiment with different combinations of meats. Feel free to customise the recipe accordingly.
Is Bigos a spicy dish?
Bigos is not spicy, but you can add spices or chilli peppers if you prefer a bit of heat.
Can I make vegetarian or vegan Bigos?
While traditional Bigos contains meat and animal products, you can create vegetarian or vegan versions by substituting the meats with plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh.
Air Fryer Golabki – Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
What Is Golabki?
If you’re looking to try something new and exciting for dinner, Alr Fryer Golabki is a great choice.
This recipe combines the flavours of tender cabbage leaves with a tasty filling, resulting in a dish that is comfort food.
Golabki, a traditional Polish dish, has been enjoyed by generations for its unique blend of flavours and heartiness.
It consists of cabbage leaves filled with a tasty mixture of ground meat, rice, and seasonings.
The dish holds a special place in Polish culture, often prepared for festive occasions and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Makes approx 10
- 1 cabbage
- 454g minced meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
- 140g cooked rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- salt and pepper to taste
- 225g passata
- 250 ml chicken or vegetable stock
- cooking spray
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
Preparing the Cabbage Leaves
- Fill a large pan with water and bring it to a boil. Meanwhile, remove any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage and discard them.
- Carefully place the cabbage into the boiling water and cook for about 5 minutes. This will help loosen the leaves for easy removal.
- Once the outer leaves become slightly soft, use tongs to remove them from the pan. Place them on a clean towel or paper towel to cool.
- Repeat the process of boiling and removing the leaves until you have enough to wrap the filling mixture. You’ll need around 12 to 16 leaves.
Assembling the Golabki
- Take a cabbage leaf and trim the tough rib at the base, making it easier to roll.
- Spoon a portion of the filling onto the centre of the leaf.
- Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll it up tightly, similar to how you would roll a wrap. Repeat this process for the remaining leaves and filling.
Air Frying The Golabki
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the Golabki rolls into the basket in a single layer, seam side down.
- Cook the Golabki in the air fryer for approximately 20 minutes, or until the cabbage leaves are crisp and golden brown.
- While the Golabki is cooking, combine the passata and chicken or vegetable stock in a small saucepan. Heat the sauce over medium heat until warmed through.
- Once the Golabki is cooked, carefully remove them from the air fryer and serve with the warm tomato sauce.
Tips for Making Perfect Air Fryer Golabki
- Use a combination of minced beef and pork for a more tasty filling.
- Ensure the cabbage leaves are soft and pliable before rolling to prevent tearing.
- Secure the Golabki rolls with toothpicks if necessary to keep them from unravelling during cooking.
- Experiment with different seasonings and herbs.
- Adjust the cooking time in the air fryer based on your desired level of crispness.
Serving Suggestions
Air Fryer Golabki is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with some side dishes.
Here are a few ideas:
- Mashed potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes goes well with Golabki.
- Steamed vegetables: Add some freshness to your plate with a side of steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans.
- Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides a cool contrast to the warm Golabki.
FAQs
1. Using different types of cabbage for Golabki?
Yes, you can use other types of cabbage such as Savoy cabbage, depending on your preference. Bear in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly.
2. Making Golabki ahead of time?
Absolutely! Golabki can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.
3. Freezing Golabki
Yes, Golabki can be frozen. Make sure to wrap them tightly in cling film or place them in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. What other fillings can I use for Golabki?
You can experiment with vegetarian options using ingredients like mushrooms, quinoa, or lentils. Get creative!
5. Can I bake Golabki instead of using an air fryer?
Certainly! If you prefer the traditional baking method, you can place the Golabki rolls in a baking dish, cover them with tomato sauce, and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
If you enjoy making something different, why not try Easy Spanish Meals In The Air Fryer?
Air Fryer Placki Ziemniaczane – Polish Potato Pancakes
Polish potato pancakes, also known as Placki Ziemniaczane, are a delicious and traditional dish in Polish cuisine consisting of crispy pancakes made from grated potatoes.
They are seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes onion and make a perfect side dish or a hearty meal on their own.
If you’re looking for a healthier way to enjoy this classic recipe, using an air fryer can be a game-changer.
The result is crispy and delicious.
Air Fryer Polish Potato Pancakes
Gather The Ingredients
Makes approx 6-8 Pancakes depending on the size of each pancake
To make air fryer Polish potato pancakes, you will need:
- 4 medium-sized potatoes (preferably starchy varieties)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 30g plain flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- oil spray (for coating the pancakes)
Prepare the Potatoes
Peel the potatoes and rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with paper kitchen towel.
Grate the Potatoes
Using a grater or a food processor with a grating attachment, grate the potatoes into a large bowl. Grating them finely will result in crispier pancakes.
Squeeze Out Excess Moisture
Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze tightly to remove as much moisture as possible.
The drier the potatoes, the crispier the pancakes will be.
Add Other Ingredients
Transfer the squeezed potatoes to a mixing bowl. Add the chopped onion, beaten eggs, flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
Form the Pancakes
Take a spoonful of the potato mixture and shape it into a half-an-inch thick flat pancake using your hands.
Repeat until all the mixture is used.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps to achieve a crispy exterior.
Air frying the Pancakes
Lightly coat the air fryer basket with oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the shaped pancakes in a single layer, leaving some space between them. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Flip and Continue Cooking
Carefully flip the pancakes using a silicon spatula. Return them to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the other side is crispy and golden.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Polish Potato Pancakes
- Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Gold, you will get a fluffier result.
- Squeeze out the moisture from the grated potatoes thoroughly.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper airflow and even cooking.
- Adjust the cooking time and temperature according to your air fryer model and personal preference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Freezing the uncooked potato pancakes?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked potato pancakes. Place them on a baking sheet lined with greaseproof paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to cook them, simply place the frozen pancakes directly into the preheated air fryer and follow the cooking instructions, adding a few extra minutes.
2. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes can be used as a delicious alternative to regular potatoes. They will have a slightly sweeter flavour. Follow the same recipe and cooking instructions, adjusting the seasoning to your taste.
3. Making gluten-free pancakes?
Yes, you can make the pancakes gluten-free using a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour instead of plain flour.
4. How can I make the pancakes crispier?
To achieve extra crispiness, increase the cooking time slightly. Lightly brush the pancakes with oil before placing them in the air fryer.
5. What toppings can I serve with Polish potato pancakes?
Polish potato pancakes can be served with various toppings.
Some popular options include sour cream, apple sauce, smoked salmon, sautéed mushrooms, grated cheese, or even a sunny-side-up egg.
