Traditional Polish Mizeria (Cucumber Salad) Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 large cucumber
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1 small bunch of fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by peeling the cucumber. Then, slice it into thin rounds.
  2. Combine the sliced cucumber and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Let it rest for about 10 minutes.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream, vinegar, chopped dill, and sugar together.
  4. Drain the salted cucumber slices to get rid of excess water.
  5. Add the drained cucumber slices to the sour cream mixture.
  6. Stir well until the cucumbers are evenly coated with the cream.
  7. Season with additional salt and pepper according to taste.
  8. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Add thinly sliced red onions for an extra kick of flavor.
  • Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • Try using apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for a slightly different taste.
  • Add a minced clove of garlic for a hint of garlic flavor.
  • Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for added texture.
  • For a creamier version, mix in a tablespoon of mayonnaise.
  • Experiment with different herbs like parsley or mint instead of dill.
  • For a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos.
  • Include sliced radishes or cherry tomatoes for a colorful variation.

Recipe overview

"Mizeria is a traditional Polish salad that gets its name from the word 'misery', but don't let the name fool you. This salad is anything but miserable. Made with thinly sliced cucumbers, tangy sour cream, and fresh dill, Mizeria offers a refreshing, creamy, and flavorful experience. It's a simple salad that's perfect for hot summer days or as a palate cleanser between heavier courses. The tanginess of the vinegar combined with the coolness of the cucumber and the slight sweetness from the sugar results in a unique taste that's sure to leave you craving for more. Best of all, it only takes a few steps to prepare this delightful dish. Enjoy it chilled for the best experience."

Common questions

  1. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
  2. Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if you prefer a healthier option or don't have sour cream on hand. The taste and texture may be slightly different, but it will still work well in the recipe.
  3. Can I use dried dill instead of fresh dill?
  4. Yes, you can use dried dill if fresh dill is not available. However, the flavor may not be as vibrant compared to using fresh dill.
  5. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
  6. While the traditional Mizeria recipe uses only cucumber, you can certainly add other vegetables such as thinly sliced radishes or shredded carrots for variation and additional crunch.
  7. How long can I refrigerate the salad before serving?
  8. It is recommended to refrigerate the Mizeria salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. You can also refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before serving, but the cucumbers may become slightly softer.
  9. Can I make this salad in advance?
  10. Absolutely! Mizeria is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare the salad in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to combine the ingredients
  • Serving Bowl - A bowl to serve the Mizeria
  • Whisk - To mix the sour cream, vinegar, dill, and sugar
  • Spoon - To stir and mix the ingredients
  • Knife - To peel and slice the cucumber

Origin stories

In the heart of Poland, where hearty, warming dishes are the norm, there exists a cucumbers in sour cream dish known as Mizeria. Its name, which translates literally to “misery”, might make you furrow your brow in confusion. "Why would such a light, refreshing salad be named after sadness?" you might wonder. This curious name dates back to the 16th century, when Italian Queen Bona Sforza brought the recipe to Poland. The Queen, despite her royal luxuries, missed her homeland terribly and the cucumber salad, so different from Poland's heavier dishes, reminded her of home. Each bite was a sweet reminder of sunny Italy and a sobering taste of her longing. Thus, the dish was named Mizeria, reflecting the Queen's misery in her homesickness. Today, Mizeria is a beloved staple of Polish cuisine, a testament to the Queen's poignant tale and the transcending power of food.

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.