Kluski z Makiem i Bakaliami (Polish Poppy Seed Noodles with Dried Fruits)

Kluski z makiem i bakaliami is a traditional Polish dish, often served during festive occasions, particularly around Christmas. This sweet and hearty dish combines noodles with poppy seeds and dried fruits, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. It’s a perfect blend of cultural heritage and comfort food, offering a rich, nutty flavor from the poppy seeds and a chewy sweetness from the dried fruits and nuts. It’s simple to make yet feels like a special treat, perfect for family gatherings or as a delicious dessert.

Ingredients:

200g wide egg noodles (kluski)
100g poppy seeds
200g mixed dried fruits (raisins, apricots, cranberries)
50g mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts)
2 tablespoons honey or sugar (to taste)
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Directions:

Cook the noodles: Begin by cooking the egg noodles in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the poppy seeds: In a small pan, lightly toast the poppy seeds over low heat for 2-3 minutes to release their nutty aroma. Then grind the poppy seeds using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle to a coarse texture.
Prepare the dried fruits and nuts: Chop the dried fruits into small pieces, and roughly chop the nuts.
Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, melt the butter over low heat. Add the cooked noodles, toasted poppy seeds, dried fruits, and nuts. Stir gently to combine.
Sweeten the dish: Drizzle with honey or sprinkle sugar, then add the vanilla extract and cinnamon (if using) for added flavor. Stir well until everything is evenly coated.
Serve: Transfer the kluski to a serving dish and enjoy warm. Optionally, garnish with extra nuts or dried fruits for a decorative touch.
Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving: This dish can be served warm as a dessert or sweet side dish. It’s a great accompaniment to savory meals or can be enjoyed on its own as a treat.
Storage: Kluski z makiem i bakaliami can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it gently in a pan with a little butter or water to bring it back to life.
Variations:

Vegan Version: Swap butter for coconut oil and use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly version.
Spices: For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg along with the cinnamon.
Fruit Variations: You can experiment with different dried fruits such as figs, prunes, or even candied ginger for a unique twist on the dish.
Noodle Alternatives: You can also try using other types of noodles such as rice noodles or even spaghetti if you’re looking for a different texture.