Pierogi

Looking at the list of foods posted on CourseWeb, there was one item that caught my attention. Coming from a Polish and Slovak background, Pierogi were often served at family dinners as a side with Sauerkraut and Kielbasa. Pierogi are delicious and very history-filled. Although there are various types, my favorites consist of the traditional fillings of potatoes and/or cheese. Because Pierogi have such a heavy cultural background, having them always reminds me of family dinners at home.
 

What are Pierogi? Pierogi are dumplings made out of unleavened dough, which is dough made without yeast or any leavening agent. Surprisingly, “Pierogi” is the plural form of the word, although many say “Pierogies” today. The singular form is “Pieróg” which is rarely used, since they are often served two or three at a time.  Ingredients for Pierogi depend on the filling inside the dough. The most traditional fillings are mashed potatoes, fried onions, cheese, Sauerkraut, or meat. The flavor of Pierogi also depends on the filling, varying from savory to sweet. Some like jelly-filled Pierogi to have as a dessert, while others like bacon, potatoes, or cheese fillings for a more salty dish. The texture of traditional Pierogi is generally smooth, with a mashed potatoes consistency. If the Pierogi is intended for dessert and filled with berry or prune jam, it would have a stickier, thinner consistency with possible fruit bites inside the dough.

The nutritional value of the traditional Polish potato and cheddar Pierogi wouldn’t be considered by most to be the healthiest. There are around 300 calories in three or four Pierogi, and around 3 grams of fat for sautéed dishes. Four traditional Pierogi also consist of up to 10 grams of protein and about 1 gram of fiber. However, due to the dough and potatoes, Pierogi are probably best for their high numbers in carbohydrates. Depending on what they are filled with and whether they are sautéed, fried with oil, baked, or boiled, each type has different nutritional information.

According to tastingpoland.com, the Pierogi has been around since the 13^th century. Many sources are not completely sure how or where it originated, although many people believe it can be traced back to China. It was then believed the Pierogi traveled to Italy during the Marco Polo, where it then made its’ way to Eastern Europe. Originally, it was only eaten during Christmas time and Easter in Poland, but now is enjoyed regularly around the world.

Currently, Pierogi is prepared and eaten in both homes and in restaurants. As we’ve learned, this food like many others has become more available worldwide due to globalization; however, because it dates back to the 13^th century, this food has a long and ethnic history. Also, Pierogi have become even more popular now that they are available in the frozen food aisle. If they weren’t, there would still most likely be people who are unfamiliar with the food.

I’ve noticed there are many places that recognize the Polish culture in Pittsburgh, especially with Pierogi. I read about many places that claim to have “authentic” Pierogi, because all of the cooks are immigrants from Poland and Ukraine. But in reality, Pierogi are traced back to China, therefore claiming they are “authentic” may actually be incorrect, although they may taste more like the ones made in Poland. Also, there is the Pittsburgh Pirates Pierogi Race, which was actually inspired by the Milwaukee Brewers Sausage race. Mrs. T.’s Pierogi sponsors the race every game, I attempt to bring some Polish culture to the ball field.

Overall, just like all foods, Pierogi means different things to different people. To many, the Pierogi can be just a side dish they find delicious or easy to boil or throw on a plate. But to others like myself, the Pierogi is a symbol of my Polish heritage and family.    

Sources

Wolf, Nicki. "Nutritional Value of Perogies." Livestrong.com. LIVESTRONG, 24 Aug. 2011. Web.

"Pierogi – the Best Guide to the Most Popular Polish Food." Pierogi. DISQUS, n.d. Web. 25 July

2014. <http://www.tastingpoland.com/food/pierogi.html>.

-Asking my mom and aunts questions about how they learned how to prepare Pierogi