Kromki

Kromki is a Polish term meaning slices of bread. It refers to the thin, rectangular portions that a loaf is cut into, typically when bread is prepared for daily meals. The singular form is kromka, and kromki denotes the plural.

In everyday language, kromki chleba are the common starting point for many dishes. They are used to make kanapki (sandwiches) and can be toasted to become grzanki or toasty slices. Fresh kromki provide a soft base for toppings such as butter, jams, cheese, or cold cuts, while day-old or stale kromki are often repurposed into breadcrumbs, croutons, or other substitutions in cooking.

The term also covers the crusts or end pieces of a loaf in casual speech, depending on regional usage. Bread slices vary in thickness by bakery or household preference, and the concept of kromki encompasses this range from thin to moderately thick slices. Variants of bread, such as rye, whole grain, or gluten-free options, are sold as kromki just like standard wheat bread.

Kromki are a basic element of Polish bread culture and are widely used across households for quick meals and snacks. They exemplify how everyday bread is portioned and repurposed in traditional and modern cooking.

See also: bread, toast, kanapki, crouton.