Polish Boy Sandwich
This Cleveland staple, the Polish Boy Sandwich, is packed with flavor- creamy slaw and crispy fries topped with barbecue sauce over a kielbasa on a roll.
When it comes to iconic local delicacies, Cleveland proudly boasts the Polish Boy sandwich. Not only is this handheld delicious, but is a true testament to the city’s Eastern European community and culinary diverstiy.
Want to try more delicious sandwiches from across the United States? Check out Maryland’s Crab Cake Sandwich, Michigan’s Cudighi, or a Slopper from Pueblo, Colorado.
What is on a Polish Boy?
The Polish Boy is a mouthwatering sandwich that combines several delicious components. At its heart is the Kielbasa sausage, a flavorful and robust Polish sausage that forms the foundation of the sandwich.
SIGN UP FOR OUR MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
Next, you add a generous helping of crispy French fries, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite. To balance the richness, you add a layer of tangy coleslaw, providing a refreshing contrast. Finally, a dollop of mayo ties everything together, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
What is a Polish Boy in Cleveland?
In Cleveland, the Polish Boy holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. This hearty sandwich has become a culinary symbol of the city, celebrated at various eateries and food events. Cleveland takes pride in its unique take on the Polish Boy, often customizing the toppings and condiments. Whether enjoyed at a food truck or a local joint, the Polish Boy sandwich is a truly Cleveland experience.
Where did the Polish Boy come from?
The origins of the Polish Boy can be traced back to Cleveland’s vibrant culinary scene. While the exact origin is hazy, legend goes it gained popularity in the city’s neighborhoods, particularly among working-class communities.
Over the years, the Polish Boy has evolved, with different establishments putting their own spin on the classic recipe. Today, it stands as a testament to Cleveland’s ability to turn simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
What’s the difference between a Polish Boy and a Polish girl?
Interestingly, there isn’t a significant difference between a Polish Boy and a Polish Girl. A Polish Girl is the same sandwich with the addition of pulled pork. The variations in toppings or condiments can vary between different vendors.
The Polish Boy shows off Cleveland’s culinary landscape, offering a ton of goodness in every bite. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, make sure to enjoy this sandwich that has become a hallmark of Ohio’s vibrant food culture.
Polish Boy Sandwich
Ingredients
- 4 smoked kielbasa links
- ½ tbsp oil
- 4 hoagie rolls
- ¼ cup your favorite barbecue sauce
- french fries store bought
For the coleslaw
- 3 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 tbsp mayo
- ½ – 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- salt and pepper to taste
Recipe Instructions
- Mix the cabbage, mayo, vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder together in a medium bowl until combined. Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust as needed. Set aside.
- Make fries in oven according to store bought instructions.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium high heat. Add ½ tbsp oil and heat until it begins to shimmer.
- Add kielbasa and cook until all sides are charred, about 1 minute per side.
- Place the kielbasa in the opened hoagie roll. Top with fries, slaw, and drizzle barbecue sauce over.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we receive a commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no extra cost to you.