Kluski z Makiem (Polish Noodles with Poppy Seeds)

🧂 Ingredients

• 400g Egg noodles(Wide egg noodles (kluski jajeczne) are traditional, but any wide, flat egg noodle will work.)
• 200g Poppy seeds(Whole poppy seeds.)
• 100g Honey(Or to taste. Adjust sweetness as desired.)
• 50g Raisins(Optional, but traditional. You can soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before adding if you prefer them plumper.)
• 30g Unsalted butter(Plus extra for serving, if desired.)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the poppy seed mixture: Grind the poppy seeds using a poppy seed grinder or a food processor until finely ground. For a smoother texture, you can grind them twice. In a medium bowl, combine the ground poppy seeds with the honey and raisins. Stir well until everything is thoroughly combined. Set aside.

   ⏱️ 10-15 minutes
2. 2

   Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil (ensure the water is generously salted, like the sea). Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente (tender but still with a slight bite). Do not overcook. Drain the noodles thoroughly in a colander.

   ⏱️ 10-12 minutes
3. 3

   Combine and serve: Immediately transfer the hot, drained noodles to a large serving bowl. Add the butter to the hot noodles and toss gently until the butter is melted and coats the noodles. Spoon the poppy seed, honey, and raisin mixture over the hot noodles. Toss everything together gently until the noodles are evenly coated with the poppy seed mixture. Serve warm.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓Grinding the poppy seeds is crucial for releasing their flavor and creating the characteristic texture of this dish. If you don't have a poppy seed grinder, a food processor or even a mortar and pestle can be used, though it will take longer.
• ✓This dish is traditionally served as one of the twelve meatless dishes on Polish Christmas Eve (Wigilia).
• ✓Taste and adjust the sweetness with more honey if desired before serving.

🔄 Variations

• Add chopped toasted nuts (like walnuts or almonds) for extra crunch and flavor.
• Incorporate other dried fruits such as cranberries or chopped dried apricots along with the raisins.
• A pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract can be added to the poppy seed mixture for added depth of flavor.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving