Data from the Central Statistical Office from 2023 on the production of agricultural and horticultural crops indicate that the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship ranks fifth in Poland in terms of field cabbage cultivation. Detailed statistics kept by the Agency for Development and Modernisation of Agriculture show that the greatest amount of this vegetable is in our voivodeship – Kujawy (Inowrocław and Włocławek poviat regions) and in  Chełmno Land (Świecie, Chełmno and Grudziądz poviat regions). White cabbage is grown on both small and large farms specializing in vegetable growing.

The following varieties are cultivated: Kamienna Głowa, Amagier, Lange, Cyklon, Agresor. Some of the farms, using their own harvest, also produce sauerkraut which they later sell – similarly to sauerkraut juice – at local markets, supplying larger, local retail chains and municipal greengrocers. Sauerkraut from Płużnica and Unisław area is particularly appreciated for its high quality.

Cabbage cultivation and harvest, photo by Adam Zakrzewski

In 2018, sauerkraut juice from the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship was entered on the List of Traditional Products kept by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Area.

Sauerkraut is also an integral part of traditional and regional cuisine in our voivodeship. Recipes for dishes – everyday and holiday meals – using sauerkraut are passed down from generation to generation. Nowadays, it also offers many other culinary possibilities, and when preparing it, you can show your imagination and willingness to experiment in the kitchen because it can be combined with a wide variety of additions: meat, fish, exotic fruits and even seafood.

Nowadays, cabbage is rarely fermented at home, but when it is done, it is usually in small quantities and for current needs. The custom of collective work and entertainment organized in villages on the occasion of the annual cabbage pickling also gradually disappeared. However, regional folklore groups try to preserve, continue and pass on these traditions to the younger generation in the form of theatrical performances.

The old custom of helping neighbours by stocking up sauerkraut is being replaced by joint celebrations and entertainment of local communities dedicated to the cabbage theme. These undoubtedly include the “Cabbage Festival”, organised in Unisław since 2011. It is attended not only by residents of nearby towns but also by guests from all over the voivodeship region and tourists. The event has a nationwide impact. During this event there are such attractions as: demonstrations of old methods of making sauerkraut, competitions on the subject of cabbage and culinary competitions with cabbage as the main ingredient. On this day you can also taste a variety of cabbage dishes. The organizers of this event are Unisław Gmina and Unisław Cultural Center together with partners.

Selling cabbage at the market on Chełmińska Street, Toruń 2024, photo by Adam Zakrzewski

Cabbage festival in Unisław – photo from the archives of the Municipal Cultural Centre in Unisław,
Adam Zakrzewski