Kopytka - Polish potato noodles

Kopytka is one of those traditional Polish dishes that, thanks to its simplicity and taste, gains supporters not only in Poland. These are actually potato dumplings in the shape of small rhombuses or triangles. In some regions of Poland, they take on a slightly oblong shape.

It all depends on the person who makes them. Sometimes it's easier and faster to make something more subtle. The word "Kopytka" itself literally means "small hooves", to which their shape refers. In my opinion, this is quite an accurate description.

Kopytka can be served in various ways. They can be a separate dish to which you can add your favorite sauce. We can also coat them in breadcrumbs fried in butter.

We can also use this pasta as an addition to another main dish, e.g. instead of potatoes. Each way is good and has its own unique character and taste.

Potato noodles have a smooth and soft texture. Its taste largely depends on the additives added to the dough. Traditionally, the ingredient list is quite simple.

Nowadays, however, you can find different varieties that may contain, for example, spinach. So it's worth experimenting and finding your own taste.

How were "kopytka" created?

This dish has a very long tradition in Poland and probably no one knows exactly when it was created. One of their forms containing potato flour dates back to the 18th century, when it began to be produced. But, as we mentioned earlier, this is not the period of their creation, because the dish itself is much older.

The roots of this dish can be found in country cottages. Everything that was at hand was used. If there was anything left from the previous day, it was processed again. Nothing could be wasted. We're talking about previously cooked potatoes.

This simple recipe turned out to be a delicious and filling dish. Regardless of the method of serving or additions, this dish has its own unique character and taste.

How to prepare Kopytka?

Kopytka are made of potato dough with the addition of flour, eggs and salt. As I already mentioned, there are also versions that add potato flour. The resulting dough is thoroughly kneaded and rolled, and then cut into small pieces.

They are boiled in salted water and, after cooking, served with additions of your choice. Potato pasta is today one of the most popular dishes served on the family table in Poland.