Christmas in Poland: Christmas Dinner

In Poland the Christmas Eve supper has a special name. It is called Wigilia, which means “vigil” in Polish. It may also be called the “star supper.” Traditional Christmas Eve foods include carp or pike, almond soup (made from almonds, raisins, rice, and milk), beet soup, cabbage, and other vegetable and grain dishes. Poppyseed cake, ginger cake, and other pastries may be served for dessert. Polish folk tradition suggests setting a place at the table for the Christ child as well as places for any absent family members. The unused place settings remind diners of the spiritual presence of these absent guests.