27 Mar 2025
Living in Poland as a Pakistani expat brings new experiences, and food is one of the best ways to explore a new culture. While you might miss the spicy and aromatic dishes from home, Poland has some delicious local foods worth trying. Whether you’re a student, worker, or long-term resident, here are five traditional Polish dishes you should taste at least once!
Pierogi are Poland’s most famous dish and a must-try for every expat. These soft dumplings are stuffed with different fillings and can be savory or sweet.
They’re boiled and often pan-fried for a crispy texture. You’ll find them in nearly every Polish restaurant. They are as comforting as a warm plate of samosas back home!
Bigos, also called “Hunter’s Stew,” is a hearty dish made with sauerkraut, fresh cabbage, and different types of meat, such as pork, beef, or sausage. It’s slow-cooked with spices, mushrooms, and sometimes prunes for a slightly sweet twist.
This dish is popular in winter and is perfect for those cold Polish nights. If you love nihari or haleem, you’ll enjoy the rich, slow-cooked flavors of bigos.
Żurek is a sour soup made from fermented rye flour. It has a tangy, creamy texture. It is usually served with boiled potatoes, smoked sausage, and a hard-boiled egg.
It’s commonly eaten during Easter but is available all year. If you’re a fan of unique flavors and trying something different, this soup is a must-have!
Gołąbki, meaning "little pigeons," are cabbage leaves filled with minced meat, rice, and spices. The rolls are cooked in a tomato-based sauce, making them juicy and full of flavor.
They are a traditional homemade dish and might remind you of the stuffed parathas or wraps back home.
Kielbasa is Poland’s signature sausage, made from pork, beef, or chicken, seasoned with garlic and spices. It can be smoked or fresh, and it’s often grilled, boiled, or served with mustard.
This dish is a staple at Polish barbecues and street food stalls. If you enjoy grilled meats like seekh kebabs, you’ll appreciate the flavors of kielbasa!
While Polish food is delicious, sometimes you just crave a taste of home. Luckily, Poland has many Pakistani restaurants where you can enjoy your favorite dishes.
You can also find Pakistani spices, lentils, and snacks at local Asian grocery stores.
Living abroad means staying connected with loved ones back home—not just through food but also through financial support. Whether you need to send money online to Pakistan from Poland for family, bills, or savings, ACE Money Transfer makes it fast, secure, and hassle-free.
Exploring Polish cuisine is a great way to embrace your new home while still enjoying your Pakistani favorites. Whether you try pierogi, bigos, or kielbasa, each dish offers a taste of Poland’s rich culinary heritage. You’ll find comforting similarities in the spices, warmth, and heartiness of the meals. Sharing these new flavors with fellow expats can make your experience even more enjoyable. Don’t hesitate to add a Pakistani twist to traditional Polish recipes—it’s a fun way to blend cultures. Food isn’t just nourishment; it’s a way to feel at home wherever you are. So, indulge in the local delicacies, keep your traditions alive, and let your taste buds guide your expat journey.
Yes! Many restaurants in major cities like Warsaw and Kraków serve halal food, including Pakistani and Middle Eastern cuisines.
Yes, you can buy Pakistani spices, rice, and snacks in Asian grocery stores or online.
Is Polish food spicy?
No, Polish food is generally mild, but you can add spices to suit your taste.
Pierogi filled with potatoes and cheese or mushrooms and sauerkraut are great vegetarian options.
You can send money to Pakistan online with ACE Money Transfer for a quick, secure, and affordable service.