Authentic Polish Zrazy Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs of beef sirloin
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 4 slices of bacon, diced
  • 2 pickles, sliced
  • 2 tbsp of mustard
  • 1 cup of breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup of flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup of beef broth
  • 2 tbsp of vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by pounding the beef sirloin until it is thin and flat. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. In a pan, fry the diced bacon until it is crispy. Remove it from the pan and set it aside, but keep the bacon fat in the pan.
  3. Using the same pan, sauté the garlic and onions until they are softened and slightly browned.
  4. Spread a thin layer of mustard over one side of each piece of beef. Then layer the bacon, onions, and sliced pickles on top.
  5. Roll up the beef tightly and secure it with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
  6. Heat up the vegetable oil in a pan, and while it's heating, prepare the zrazy for frying by dipping each roll in flour, then in beaten eggs, and finally in breadcrumbs.
  7. Fry the zrazy on all sides until they are browned. This should take about 10 minutes.
  8. After frying, put the zrazy in a pot, add the beef broth, and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.
  9. When the zrazy is done, remove the toothpicks or twine and serve with the sauce from the pot.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use chicken or turkey breast instead of beef sirloin for a poultry variation of zrazy.
  • Experiment with different fillings such as cheese, mushrooms, or roasted peppers.
  • Replace the breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or panko for a crunchy crust.
  • Try using whole wheat flour or almond flour as an alternative to all-purpose flour.
  • For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Add herbs and spices to the beef mixture for extra flavor, such as parsley, thyme, or paprika.
  • Instead of frying the zrazy, bake them in the oven for a healthier alternative.
  • Make a vegetarian version by substituting the beef with a mixture of mashed potatoes and vegetables as the filling.
  • For a spicy twist, add some chili flakes or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
  • Serve the zrazy with a different sauce, such as mushroom sauce or tomato sauce.

Recipe overview

Zrazy is a traditional dish from Poland that is enjoyed for its hearty and comforting flavors. This recipe calls for beef sirloin which is pounded thin, spread with mustard, and then filled with a savory mixture of bacon, onions, and pickles. The beef rolls are then breaded and fried until golden brown, before being simmered in a rich beef broth until tender. This step-by-step recipe will guide you through the process of creating this delightful meal, promising a satisfying and delicious result. Whether you're familiar with Polish cuisine or are trying it for the first time, Zrazy is sure to please your palate.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe? Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as flank steak or round steak, but keep in mind that they may require longer cooking times to become tender.
  2. Can I substitute the bacon with another ingredient? If you prefer not to use bacon, you can substitute it with diced smoked ham or pancetta for a similar smoky flavor.
  3. Can I make this recipe without eggs? Yes, you can omit the eggs. The eggs help the breadcrumbs adhere to the zrazy, but you can try using a bit of milk or water as a substitute for the eggs.
  4. Can I bake the zrazy instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake the zrazy in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.
  5. What can I serve with zrazy? Zrazy pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad. Some people also enjoy serving them with a dollop of sour cream or a side of pickles.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - A sturdy surface for preparing and slicing ingredients.
  • Chef's knife - A sharp knife for cutting and trimming the beef.
  • Meat mallet - Used for pounding the beef to make it thin and tender.
  • Pan or skillet - For frying the bacon, sautéing onions, and browning the zrazy.
  • Kitchen twine or toothpicks - To secure the rolled-up zrazy while cooking.
  • Cooking pot - For simmering the zrazy in the beef broth.
  • Tongs - Useful for flipping and handling the zrazy during frying.
  • Slotted spoon - To remove the zrazy from the frying pan or pot.
  • Serving platter - A dish or platter for presenting the cooked zrazy.

Origin stories

Zrazy, a traditional dish that hails from Poland, has a history as rich and layered as its flavors. This delectable meal, which dates back to the 14th century, was initially a culinary delight reserved for the nobility. It was commonly served during grand feasts and celebrations, where the rich and powerful would savor its complex combination of flavors. What makes Zrazy even more interesting is that its name, when loosely translated, means 'a crazy dish'! This is likely a nod to its wildly diverse array of ingredients, which come together to create a truly delightful gastronomic experience. So next time you bite into this dish, remember, you're partaking in a piece of Poland's history, a meal that has been enjoyed by generations of food lovers over the centuries.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.