Polish patties (kotlety)

Polish patties (kotlety)

Polish patties, known as kotlety, are deliciously seasoned ground beef patties coated in crispy breadcrumbs. They are pan-fried to golden perfection and make a comforting traditional meal.

Side

Prep Time

20 min

Cook Time

15 min

Servings

4

Kotlety, or Polish patties, are a beloved traditional dish in Polish cuisine, often enjoyed as a main course for family meals. These patties blend ground beef with aromatic ingredients like marjoram and garlic, enriched by the softness from soaked bread, creating a tender and flavorful bite. The golden breadcrumb coating adds a delightful crunch, contrasting nicely with the juicy interior. This recipe highlights simple pantry staples combined with traditional flavors, presenting an easy yet satisfying dish. Kotlety are often served alongside mashed potatoes, sauerkraut, or a fresh cucumber salad, balancing their rich taste with light, refreshing sides. Learning to prepare kotlety offers insight into Polish home cooking traditions and is perfect for those wanting to explore international comfort foods. The methodical soaking of bread and frying of onions enhances the patties' moisture and sweetness, while frying them until crisp on the outside ensures maximum flavor and texture.

Ingredients

  • 1 Bread Rolls
  • 120 ml Milk
  • 1 chopped Onion
  • 100 ml Vegetable Oil
  • 500 g Ground Beef
  • 1 Egg
  • 1 Garlic Clove
  • Pinch Marjoram
  • 75 g Breadcrumbs

Instructions

Soak the bread roll in the milk until it becomes completely soft and spongy; this adds moisture and tenderness to the patties. While the bread is soaking, heat the vegetable oil in a pan and gently fry the chopped onion for around 8 minutes, or until it turns soft and golden brown—this brings out a natural sweetness that enhances the final flavor. Transfer the fried onion into a mixing bowl with the ground beef, then add the egg, minced garlic, a pinch of marjoram, and some seasoning (salt and pepper to taste). Carefully squeeze out any excess milk from the bread roll and crumble it into the meat mixture. Mix everything thoroughly but gently, ensuring all ingredients are combined evenly without overworking the meat. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a patty. Pour the breadcrumbs into a shallow bowl and coat each patty evenly, pressing lightly to adhere a nice crispy crust. Heat some vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat and cook the patties in batches. Fry each side for about 6-7 minutes until they are beautifully browned and cooked through, flipping carefully to maintain the shape and consider covering the pan briefly if needed to ensure thorough cooking. Tip: To keep the patties juicy, avoid pressing them down with a spatula while frying. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes for a traditional Polish meal.

Quick Info

Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
15 min
Total Time
35 min
Servings
4

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