Fafernuchy, traditional Kurpie cookies, baked for New Year’s, with rye flour, carrots, and pepper, loved by children and adults alike.
Fafernuchy, a beloved cookie from the Kurpie region of Poland, is traditionally baked for New Year’s celebrations. These cookies are seasoned with sugar, pepper, and sometimes honey, made from rye flour mixed with grated parsnips, carrots, or beets. Their unique name comes from the German word “Pfeffer” (pepper), hinting at their slightly spicy flavor. Fafernuchy are shaped like small dumplings, around 3 cm long, and baked until golden or dark brown on the outside.
Cultural Significance and Modern Relevance
Historically, fafernuchy were made without sugar, using beet or parsnip syrup as a sweetener. These cookies were often dipped in honey and played a role in a traditional guessing game called “cetno i licho.” They were especially popular with children and enjoyed until the Feast of the Epiphany. Today, they remain a cherished treat in Kurpie bakeries and are often prepared for local festivals and fairs.