Today is Fat Tuesday and in Detroit, it's also called "Paczki Day." This is the day before Lent begins; a time for many to celebrate and indulge before they might give something up for Lent, like sweet pastry.
So what is paczki and where did it come from? Originally of Polish origin, pączkis are similar to donuts. They are a deep-fried piece of dough shaped into flattened spheres and filled with confiture or other sweet filling.
During the early 1900s, many Polish immigrants moved to the town of Hamtramck, Michigan attracted by the growing automotive industry. It became a vibrant center of Polish American life and culture. Some of the older bakeries of Hamtramck still remain today, where you can get a delicious authentic pączki.
These tasty treats are still enjoyed by all in Detroit to this day. Fair warning, they are heavy on calories so while you can't eat just one, they will have you measuring your weight gain after Fat Tuesday!
Matthew Smith
Senior Manager of Marketing
