The Polonez

Who doesn't like a sandwich that is melt in your mouth goodness? If that is you then please stop reading NOW! I created this recipe because I wanted that perfect bite of sweet, savory, spciy, rich, creamy and cruncy. It's all about flavor and balance when it comes to cooking and playing around with different ingredients in the kitchen. This sandwich is a homage to my Polish background with a sprinkle of American. You'll be dreaming about this sandwich for days!!!!

the goods:

2 slices of Polish rye bread

2 slices of gouda

1 slice of sharp cheddar

2 tbl of farmers or quark cheese

2 slices of Polish bacon

1 small head of red cabbage

1 link of smoked kielbasa

1 small vidalia onion

2 tbl of mayonnaise

1 tbl of horseradish

2 tbl of berry jam

1 cup of red blend wine

2 tbl of olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

the lowdown:

First lay the two strips of bacon in a pan over medium heat for 3 minutes on each side or until crisp and cooked through. Place bacon strips on paper towel to let dry and release fat. Chop the onions into slices and place in the pan with the remaining bacon fat. Cook for 3 minutes and place the slice red cabbage into the pan. Cook for another 3 minutes. Add 1 cup of wine and braise the onion and cabbage mixture for 20 minutes or until cabbage is soft. You may need to add water so pay close attention.

Now dice the kielbasa link into small cubes and place in a different pan with a tablespoon of olive oil and cook for 10 minutes. Stirring occasionally so it won't burn. In the meantime, spread mayonnaise on one side of the rye bread. Spread the farmers (quark) cheese, along with the cheddar and gouda on each bread slice. Followed by the bacon slices.

Mix in the kielbasa with the cabbage mixture and add the berry jam as well. Mix until fully incorporated. Place the mixture on top of the bread with cheese and top it with the bread that has mayonnaise on the outside. Now place the mayonnaise side down slice on a griddle or pan over medium heat. Spread the rest of the mayonnaise on top of the bread slice that is facing you. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted. Smacznego :)