Poland's most popular street food is actually a hot sandwich, and the foundation of its uniqueness is fried mushrooms. As with all simple foods, the quality of the ingredients in a zapiekanka determines its taste. You can buy it near any train station in Poland, in a small shop or food truck. It is usually served on a paper carton, accompanied by a paper napkin. You can also easily prepare the sandwich at home, all you need is a good quality baguette, mushrooms, butter and cream cheese. After baking this "base" in the oven (the casserole must be hot, but not dried out), you can't forget to add the two mandatory ingredients of hot sandwiches: ketchup and mayonnaise. You can also add herbs or onions. The "deluxe" version can include cold meat, fresh tomato, cucumber, peppers or pickled corn. The history of zapiekanka dates back to the 1970s, the communist era, when everyone, regardless of age or financial status, lined up for zapiekanka. And although Poles were eager to say goodbye to that period of their country's history, zapiekanka is still quite popular today, as an inexpensive, nutritious and quick meal, often eaten in a hurry, before boarding a train or bus. And although it is a typically Polish invention, we owe its origin to the French, as its base, the baguette, was most likely invented in Napoleonic times, as a roll that fit perfectly in the pocket of a soldier's uniform.