Polish Zapiekanki

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the Oven

   10 min

   Set your oven to 200°C (or 180°C for a fan oven), equivalent to gas mark 6. While it heats up, prepare your baguettes by placing them on a baking tray. Toast them in the oven for 8-10 minutes until they are slightly crisp but not fully browned, then allow them to cool slightly before adding toppings.

2. 2

   Sauté Onions and Mushrooms

   11 min

   In a skillet, add 2 teaspoons of butter and 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil, heating them over low flame. Once the butter has melted, introduce the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Then, add in the mushrooms, raising the heat to medium; cook for another 5-10 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and any released liquid has evaporated. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, seasoning the mixture to your preference, and finally mix in the mayonnaise before removing from heat.

3. 3

   Prepare Baguettes for Topping

   11 min

   Carefully slice the cooled baguettes in half lengthwise, ensuring not to cut all the way through. Place the halved baguettes back on the baking tray with the cut sides facing up. Generously spread the sautéed mushroom mixture over each half, then layer on the cheddar cheese, diced ham, sliced Polish kabanos, and finish with mozzarella. Bake in the oven for an additional 8-10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and begins to turn a golden brown color.

4. 4

   Caramelize Onions for Topping

   8 min

   In a separate skillet, add the remaining butter and oil, heating them over medium heat. Once hot, add sliced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become golden brown and soft. Set these aside to cool slightly. After removing the zapiekanki from the oven, top each with the caramelized onions, along with optional dill pickles, chives, and a light drizzle of ketchup to finish.