Polish food is widely associated with hearty dishes and robust flavours, but delve a little deeper and you'll discover a cuisine that's far more nuanced than many people think. A cuisine characterised by the use of fresh, seasonal produce, it's also been heavily shaped by Poland's turbulent history. From the comforting warmth of a bowl of żurek to delicate, handmade pierogi filled with all kinds of different fillings, every dish tells a story of Poland's cultural and culinary evolution. Regional specialities, meanwhile, differ hugely depending on the landscape of the area and proximity to the Baltic Sea.

Modern Polish cuisine is also constantly evolving as the country's restaurant scene continues to flourish. Polish chefs are elevating traditional dishes and combinations with contemporary techniques and global influences, and are being recognised for their ingenuity. A flurry of Michelin stars have been awarded to Polish restaurants in multiple cities in the past few years alone, showing that Poland is, now more than ever, a foodie destination.

Whether you're simply wanting to learn more about the cuisine, fancy adding some Polish recipes to your repertoire, or are planning a foodie voyage to Poland and looking for recommendations, read on for everything you need to know about this country's fascinating food scene.