Pierogi

Pierogi are undeniably the most popular Polish cuisine. Pierogi is already plural in Polish (pieróg is single), but folks in the United States call them pierogis, which makes no sense. They are thinly rolled-out dough stuffed with savory or sweet contents. They can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or a dessert.

The most popular fillings are meat, sauerkraut with mushrooms, spinach, buckwheat, potatoes with fried onions, pepper, and cottage cheese called Ruskie, which means "Ruthenian pierogi" (not "Russian," as they are frequently mislabeled), sweet cottage cheese with raisins and seasonal fruit (blueberries, strawberries, and cherries), buckwheat, sweet cottage cheese, or boiled potatoes with fried onions (called Russian dumplings). Pierogi can be boiled, baked, or fried, but in Poland, they are customarily cooked with butter and onions on top.

They can be found almost anywhere in Poland, from street food stands to fine dining establishments. Pierogarnia Mandu in Gdansk is a true pierogi kingdom, with over 35 kinds to choose from. After eating one of these delectable stuffed dumplings, you're likely to need more.