Zapiekanka (Polish Toasted Mushroom and Cheese Bread)
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
4 Toasted Bread
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Polish
Zapiekanka (Polish Toasted Mushroom and Cheese Bread)
Description
Zapiekanka starts by slicing a baguette into manageable sections and preparing a topping of butter-sautéed onions and thinly sliced button mushrooms cooked until softened and lightly caramelized. This mixture is seasoned simply with salt and pepper to enhance natural flavors. The topping is spread on each baguette piece, which is then crowned with shredded gouda, mozzarella, or white cheddar.
Baked in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes, the cheese melts thoroughly, and the bread toasts lightly underneath, creating a contrast in textures between the crispy bread edge and soft, savory topping. After baking, a drizzle of ketchup and fresh chopped chives add tanginess and freshness to the warm dish.
Zapiekanka is typically enjoyed as a snack or light meal. The combination of savoriness, toasted bread, and melted cheese makes it satisfying and comforting. The ketchup and chives complement the earthiness of mushrooms for balanced flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 baguette sliced in half lengthwise, then cut again crosswise to make 4 slices total
- 2 tablespoons butter unsalted
- 1 onion peeled and chopped, medium
- 12 ounces button mushroom thinly sliced, 340 grams
- salt to taste, freshly ground
- black pepper to taste, freshly ground
- 8 ounces gouda shredded, 227 grams, or low-moisture Mozzarella, or white Cheddar
- ketchup for serving
- chives finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375˚F (190˚C) and lightly grease a large baking sheet or line with parchment.
- In a large pan, melt the butter over medium low heat.
- Add the onions and cook until beginning to soften and caramelize.
- Stir in the mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are softened. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
- Spread the mushrooms and onion mixture evenly over each baguette half or quarter.
- Cover with shredded cheese.
- Bake in preheated oven until cheese is melted and bread is toasted, about 10 minutes.
- Drizzle with ketchup, top with a sprinkling of chives, and serve warm.