Poland’s Christmas traditions are rich with flavors, aromas, and recipes passed down through generations.

Each region of the country has its own unique dishes and variations of Christmas Eve (Wigilia) meals. Let’s take a culinary journey across a few of Poland's regions to explore some of the most beloved regional dishes served during this festive season.

1. Mazowsze (Mazovia): Barszcz z Uszkami


In central Poland, a staple of the Wigilia dinner is barszcz czerwony z uszkami—beetroot soup with small mushroom-filled dumplings. The clear, ruby-red broth is both comforting and festive, often prepared with fermented beet juice for a tangy kick. It’s a must-have dish that represents tradition and warmth in the Mazovia region.

2. Małopolska (Lesser Poland): Karp w Galarecie

In the south, especially in Kraków and its surroundings, carp is a centerpiece of Christmas Eve. Karp w galarecie (carp in aspic) is a dish where the fish is cooked and then set in a gelatin-like jelly with vegetables and spices. Though carp can be found across Poland, this specific preparation is a hallmark of Małopolska’s festive table.

3. Podlasie: Kutiya

This eastern region shares culinary influences with its neighbors, Belarus and Ukraine. One of the standout dishes is kutiya, a sweet mixture of boiled wheat, poppy seeds, honey, and nuts. It is both a dessert and a ritual food, symbolizing prosperity and remembrance of ancestors.

4. Warmia i Mazury: Pierogi z Rybą


In the northeastern regions of Warmia and Masuria, pierogi z rybą (fish-filled dumplings) make an appearance on the Wigilia table. The fresh, local fish, often pike or whitefish, is used as a filling, creating a dish that highlights the region’s natural bounty.

A Unifying Tradition


While regional variations abound, what unites all Polish Christmas Eve feasts is their focus on tradition, symbolism, and sharing. Wigilia dinner is a meatless meal, typically consisting of 12 dishes to represent the 12 apostles. It begins with the breaking of the opłatek (Christmas wafer) and includes plenty of fish, grains, and poppy seeds, all tied to age-old customs.

And what is your favorite Christmas dish?

Best regards,

MagneticTours