The Polish Kid: A Cleveland Superfood

It’s unfathomable that you’ve never heard of LeBron James and the world champion Cleveland Cavaliers, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Superman, yes, (the original Superman), the mistake on the lake, the fumble, the shot. ..OK, now I’m going negative. Well, anyway, one thing you’ve probably never heard of that Cleveland is famous for is the “Polish kid.”

No, it’s not an Eastern European boy band. A “Polish boy” is a sausage sandwich, usually made with grilled smoked Kielbasa, stuffed into a giant bun and dipped in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, topped with fries and fresh creamy coleslaw.

Trust me, it’s good…

Even Esquire magazine has fallen under its spell, calling it “soul on white”…as in white bread. And Wendy Williams has even paid homage to his majesty on the sake show named after him.

As popular as Polish boys are in the city, depending on what part of the city you are in, they can be a bit hard to find. When I was a kid, we used to get them on our way to Cleveland Indians games from various street vendors in the center of the stadium. Nowadays your best bet is “Seti’s” which is a food truck that is usually parked at Dean Supply, a restaurant supply in the town on Woodland Ave. Also, most Soul Food restaurants like B&M’s and Hot Willow Williams will have the original and also put their own spin on the classic.

I know you’re probably thinking, “If they’re so good, how come I haven’t heard of the Polish Boys?

Well, unlike other American cities known as foodie destinations with favorites like:

Philly Cheese Steaks (Philadelphia), Po ‘Boys from Nawlins’ (New Orleans), or even Pink’s Hot dogs in Los Angeles. Like almost everything else in Cleveland, there is very little fanfare and respect for greatness abounds. But those in the know come and enjoy great pleasure, while the snobs and the less sophisticated miss out. Just remember, don’t forget the napkins…lots of napkins!

Do you feel adventurous? Bringing a little Cleveland into your house and trying to make your own sandwich?

Below are the basic ingredients and instructions for about 4 sandwiches:

Will need:

* 2 pounds. potatoes, split, washed and peeled, fried in canola oil and salt

* 4 links of boiled smoked meat kielbasa. (Optional): Quick fry them after boiling

* 4 white bread hoagie rolls

* Coleslaw (either store-bought or homemade)

*BBQ Sauce: (Optional) Using hot sauce will make it authentic.

Oh yeah again, don’t forget the napkins…