Polish Hamburgers, also known as Klupskies, are a hearty and flavorful dish that embodies the rustic charm of traditional Polish cuisine. Combining a savory mix of ground pork and beef with aromatic herbs and spices, these patties are a delicious and comforting meal. The addition of a rich mushroom sauce elevates this dish, making it perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Below is a detailed recipe that will guide you through making these delicious Polish hamburgers with a delectable mushroom sauce.
Ingredients:
For the Patties:
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 sleeve saltine crackers, crushed (about 1 cup)
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 small yellow onion, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried dill
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Mushroom Sauce:
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups beef stock
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Patties:
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork and ground beef. Add the crushed saltine crackers, milk, beaten eggs, minced onion, minced green bell pepper, dried dill, garlic powder, dried parsley, and nutmeg. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix the ingredients well until they are fully incorporated.
- Form the Patties: Using your hands, shape the mixture into patties. You should be able to make about 8-10 patties, depending on the size.
- Cook the Patties: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and hot, add the patties in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each patty for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked through. Transfer the cooked patties to a plate and cover them with aluminum foil to keep them warm.
2. Make the Mushroom Sauce:
- Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and have released their moisture.
- Add the Garlic and Worcestershire Sauce: Stir in the minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir well to coat them. Cook the flour for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add the Beef Stock: Gradually pour in the beef stock, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Finish the Sauce: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the sour cream until it is fully incorporated. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Serve the Klupskies:
- Plate the Patties: Arrange the cooked patties on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Top with Mushroom Sauce: Generously spoon the mushroom sauce over the patties, ensuring each one is well-covered.
- Garnish (Optional): For a touch of color and extra flavor, you can garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or dill.
4. Side Dish Suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes: Serve the Klupskies with a side of creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious mushroom sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed green beans, carrots, or broccoli adds a healthy and colorful contrast to the rich flavors of the patties and sauce.
- Cabbage Salad: A tangy cabbage salad or coleslaw complements the hearty patties and adds a refreshing crunch.
Tips for Success:
- Meat Mixture: Ensure the meat mixture is well-combined to prevent the patties from falling apart during cooking. If the mixture feels too loose, you can add a bit more crushed saltines or an extra egg to help bind the ingredients.
- Mushroom Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms for the sauce. Cremini, button, or portobello mushrooms all work well and add varying depths of flavor.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or in the microwave before serving.
Polish Hamburgers (Klupskies) are a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of ground pork and beef, paired with a luscious mushroom sauce. This recipe is not only satisfying but also offers a taste of traditional Polish cooking that is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, these patties are sure to impress. Serve them with your favorite sides, and enjoy a meal that is both comforting and full of flavor.
