Authentic Polish Grilled Buckwheat Patties (Hreczniaki) on the Arteflame

There is something profoundly comforting about rustic Polish cuisine, where simple, earthy ingredients are transformed into hearty masterpieces. These Polish Grilled Buckwheat Patties, known traditionally as Hreczniaki, are a testament to that culinary heritage. Traditionally baked or fried in a skillet, we take this classic recipe to new heights by cooking them on the Arteflame grill. The high-heat flat cooktop provides an unparalleled sear, creating a deliciously crispy golden-brown crust while keeping the interior moist and tender.

Buckwheat, or kasza gryczana, is a staple in Polish homes, revered for its nutty flavor and impressive nutritional profile. By combining roasted groats with savory farmer's cheese, aromatic herbs, and the slight sweetness of sautéed onions, you create a meatless patty that satisfies even the most carnivorous appetites. This recipe is not just a side dish; it is a celebration of texture and flavor, perfectly suited for your next outdoor gathering. Whether you are looking for a unique vegetarian option or a traditional side for your kielbasa, these patties are sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients

The Base

• 2 cups roasted buckwheat groats (Kasza gryczana palona)
• 4 cups water (for boiling the buckwheat)
• 1 tsp salt (for the water)

The Patty Mixture

• 1 lb (approx. 500g) Farmer’s cheese or dry cottage cheese (Twaróg), crumbled
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup dried breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
• 1 tbsp dried marjoram (essential for authentic flavor)
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 3 tbsp butter or vegetable oil (for sautéing onions)
• Oil or butter for the Arteflame griddle

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Buckwheat and Aromatics

1. Begin by rinsing the roasted buckwheat groats under cold water.
2. In a pot, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil. Add the buckwheat, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the water is absorbed and the groats are tender.
3. Remove the buckwheat from heat and let it cool completely. This is crucial as hot buckwheat can scramble the eggs later.
4. While the groats cool, fire up your Arteflame grill or a side burner. Place a small skillet on the flat cooktop, melt the butter, and sauté the chopped onions until they are golden and caramelized. Add the minced garlic in the last minute of cooking to prevent burning. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Mix the Patty Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled buckwheat, crumbled farmer's cheese, and the sautéed onion and garlic mixture.
2. Crack in the three eggs and add the chopped parsley, dried marjoram, salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix everything thoroughly by hand or with a spoon.
4. Gradually add the breadcrumbs while mixing. You want a consistency that holds together when squeezed but isn't too dry. If the mixture is too loose, add a bit more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add an extra splash of water or another egg.

Step 3: Form the Patties

1. Take a handful of the mixture and press it firmly into a ball, then flatten it into a patty about 1 inch thick.
2. Lightly dredge each patty in extra breadcrumbs to create a nice crust.
3. Place the formed patties on a baking sheet or tray lined with parchment paper, ready for the grill.

Step 4: Grill on the Arteflame

1. Ensure your Arteflame grill is heated up and ready. You want a medium-high heat zone on the flat carbon steel cooktop.
2. Apply a generous layer of vegetable oil or melted butter to the cooking surface.
3. Place the patties onto the hot griddle. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side. Do not move them too early; allow a solid crust to form so they release easily.
4. Flip gently using a wide spatula. Grill the other side until golden brown and crispy.
5. Move the patties to the cooler outer edge of the grill to keep warm until serving.

Tips

The secret to perfect Hreczniaki lies in moisture control. Buckwheat can sometimes be crumbly, so ensure your farmer's cheese is not overly wet, but don't skip the eggs, as they act as the primary binder. If you cannot find traditional Polish Twaróg (farmer's cheese), you can use a mixture of dry ricotta and crumbled feta, though this will slightly alter the salt profile, so adjust your seasoning accordingly.

When grilling on the Arteflame, patience is key. Because these patties don't have the same protein structure as a beef burger, they are more delicate. Let the heat do the work—when the bottom is sufficiently seared, the patty will naturally release from the cooktop. If it feels stuck, give it another minute. For an extra indulgent flavor, baste the patties with a little melted butter right after flipping them.

Variations

While the traditional recipe is delicious, these buckwheat patties are incredibly versatile canvas for culinary creativity. You can easily adapt the flavor profile to match the rest of your grilled menu. Here are a few popular variations to try:

• Meat Lover’s Version: Add 1/2 cup of fried, diced bacon (boczek) or sausage bits into the mixture for a smoky, savory punch.
• Forest Style: Rehydrate dried porcini mushrooms, chop them finely, and add them to the mix for a deep, umami earthiness.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the traditional breadcrumbs for gluten-free oats or crushed cornflakes to make this dish celiac-friendly.
• Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded Gouda or smoked cheese along with the farmer's cheese for a gooey, melting interior.
• Herbal Freshness: Add fresh dill and mint to the mixture for a brighter, summer-ready flavor profile.

Best pairings

Polish Grilled Buckwheat Patties are hearty enough to stand alone as a light vegetarian main course, but they truly shine when paired with complementary sauces and sides. The nutty flavor of the buckwheat pairs beautifully with creamy and acidic elements. Traditionally, they are served with a rich mushroom sauce made from wild forest mushrooms and heavy cream.

For a complete barbecue spread, try serving these alongside:

• A cold dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt topped with fresh dill.
• Grilled Kielbasa sausages for a full Polish feast.
• A crisp cucumber salad (Mizeria) with a cream dressing to cut through the richness.
• Beetroot salad (Buraczki) served warm or cold.
• A glass of crisp lager or a chilled Kefir.

Conclusion

Reimagining traditional recipes for the Arteflame grill brings a wonderful new dimension to classic comfort food. These Polish Grilled Buckwheat Patties offer a delightful contrast of textures—the crunch of the seared exterior against the soft, savory interior—that you simply cannot achieve in a standard oven. They are wholesome, filling, and steeped in cultural history.

Whether you are hosting a backyard BBQ or simply looking for a healthy, delicious dinner for your family, these Hreczniaki are sure to impress. They invite conversation and offer a taste of Eastern European hospitality right in your own backyard. Fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the rustic elegance of this timeless dish.