A quiet revolution where the sentimental yearning for the past, the warm fuzzy feeling of pleasure with notes of sadness, and the revival of the most cherished childhood memories intertwine is underway. This era is dictated by one term: nostalgia. Triggered by many activities – from sorting through old Polaroids to indulging in familiar scents and engaging in reminiscing sessions – nostalgia is a powerful psychological tool that holds the key to lifting spirits and reminding individuals of where they come from – of home.
Amidst the turmoil of recent years – from COVID-19 to rising global conflicts and the unstable economy – the importance of nostalgia has become more evident than ever. And though the post-pandemic dust has settled, the memories of families separated during times of celebration are still lingering on everyone’s minds. The era of digitalization deepened this problem. While the prominence of hybrid or remote workplace dynamics supports self-development from anywhere in the world, it can also lead to families uniting at the dinner table over Zoom rather than sitting arm-to-arm.
As the world slowly embraces the Christmas spirit this year, looking forward to houses adorned in fairy lights, pine trees covered in glistening snow, and cozy evenings by the fireplace, the Polish people are preparing for this magical time by honoring their culinary heritage. In this Eastern European land, the Christmas celebration begins on the 24th of December, when loved ones gather around the table to share 12 traditional dishes, both savory and sweet, which masterfully encapsulate the uniqueness of Polish cuisine.
During this time, Chicago-based Alexandra Foods, a family-run producer of homemade, authentic Polish classics, becomes a haven for Polish Americans excited to enjoy Christmas festivities in a true Eastern European fashion. Though the company invites local communities and seekers of new flavors all year round, its bestselling products change during the holidays, illustrating that Christmas Eve dishes are a clear consumer favorite in December.
Amidst its wide selection of 32 ready-made products are 18 flavors of pierogi, as well as uszka, kopytka, pyzy, and more. For many, the Christmas dinner table is not complete without substantial amounts of pierogi with diverse fillings – from the creamy mixture of potato and farmer’s cheese to the unique combination of sauerkraut and mushrooms – and its smaller variation, uszka – ’little ears’ filled with mushrooms and served in a bowl of steaming red borscht soup.
For the Polish diaspora, eating these dishes is so much more than childhood comfort foods coming to life; it’s about embracing the country’s distinct heritage and celebrating tradition in a foreign land. While pierogi and uszka are both types of dumplings, their texture, ingredients, shapes, and flavors differentiate them from other doughy favorites. For instance, while an Italian ravioli is considered a dumpling, it’s a delectable type of pasta with a modest dollop of often meaty or cheesy filling. On the other hand, pierogi, a crescent-shaped classic, is made of a simple dough created with nothing but flour, water, and eggs, with significantly more filling.
Loved every day of the year, pierogi and uszka – just like American Thanksgiving turkey – are enjoyed the most in the holiday spirit. In Poland, these small pockets of Eastern European flavors are typically made during late nights of Christmas preparation, when grandmas and mothers teach the art of pierogi-making to the family’s children.
The process is as time-consuming as it is rewarding, making it a challenge for many Polish Americans to prepare these traditional dishes amidst the holiday chaos. Founded by a Polish couple who immigrated to the US in 1989, Alexandra Foods bridges this gap, offering homemade goods delivered straight to its customers’ doors. Since Rich Berry took over Alexandra Foods’ ownership in 2021, the company elevated its ingredients while maintaining its authentic taste – a taste created by Alexandra Foods’ employees, mostly first-generation Eastern Europeans, who share with clients the same delicious recipes they are proud to serve to their families.
In anticipation of Christmas, Rich reflects: “Comfort food evokes positive emotions and happiness always, but especially during times of celebration. Alexandra Foods’ pierogi are like a home away from home, evoking childhood memories of cooking with babcia or sharing a laugh with loved ones with every single bite. It’s called the most magical time of the year for a reason, and the authentic taste of pierogi and uszka makes it that much more special and comforting.”
