Uszka

Polish dumplings typically served with borscht

Uszka (literally "little ears" in Polish) are small dumplings that are a traditional dish in Polish cuisine. They are typically filled with mushrooms or meat and are often served in borscht, especially during Christmas Eve dinner.

Etymology

The name "uszka" means "little ears" in Polish, which refers to their shape. The dumplings are folded in a way that resembles a small ear.

Preparation

Uszka are made from a simple dough of flour, water, and salt. The dough is rolled out thinly and cut into small squares. A filling, usually made from finely chopped mushrooms, onions, and sometimes minced meat, is placed in the center of each square. The dough is then folded over the filling to form a triangle, and the corners are pinched together to create the characteristic "ear" shape.

Filling

The most common filling for uszka is a mixture of wild mushrooms and onions, seasoned with salt and pepper. This vegetarian filling is especially popular during Wigilia, the traditional Christmas Eve dinner, when meat is typically not consumed. However, meat-filled uszka are also popular and can be made with minced pork or beef.

Cooking

Uszka are usually boiled in salted water until they float to the surface, indicating they are cooked through. They can be served immediately or stored for later use.

Serving

Uszka are traditionally served in clear borscht, a beetroot soup, during Christmas Eve dinner. They can also be served with melted butter or sour cream as a standalone dish.

Cultural significance

In Poland, uszka are an integral part of the Wigilia meal, which is a significant cultural and religious event. The meal typically consists of twelve dishes, and uszka in borscht is one of the most cherished.

Gallery

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  Uszka served on a plate

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  Close-up of uszka

Related pages

• Pierogi
• Borscht
• Polish cuisine

References

• Kevin,

 Windows on the World Complete Wine Course, 
  
 Sterling Publishing, 
 2018, 
  
  
 ISBN 978-1454921066,

12 Dishes of Polish Christmas Full text,

 Culture.pl, 
  
  
  
 Accessed on: October 15, 2023.

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  Uszka on a plate

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  Uszka close-up