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Food Truck Friday: PolJam

In the vibrant world of Minnesota's food truck scene, one name stands out for its unique blend of cultural heritage and culinary innovation: Poljam, a food truck that brings the flavors of Poland and Jamaica together in a delightful fusion. This mobile eatery, featured on KSTP’s “Food Truck Friday” segment as part of their Minnesota Live special coverage, offers a menu that reflects the personal history and creative vision of its owner, Michael Holcomb. Poljam is not just a food truck; it’s a celebration of family, identity, and the power of food to bridge diverse cultures.

At the heart of Poljam’s story is Michael Holcomb, a Minneapolis native whose life is a tapestry of Polish and Jamaican influences. Holcomb’s Polish heritage comes from his mother’s side, while his Jamaican roots are tied to his father’s family. Growing up, he was immersed in the culinary traditions of both cultures, learning recipes and techniques that would later inspire his food truck concept. From his Polish grandmother, he inherited a love for hearty, comforting dishes like pierogi and kielbasa, while his Jamaican family introduced him to the bold, spicy flavors of jerk seasoning and tropical ingredients. This dual heritage became the foundation for Poljam, a name that cleverly combines “Pol” for Polish and “Jam” for Jamaican, encapsulating the essence of his vision.

Poljam’s menu is a testament to Holcomb’s ability to blend these seemingly disparate cuisines into cohesive, mouthwatering dishes. One of the standout offerings is the Jerk Kielbasa, a dish that marries the smoky, savory flavors of Polish sausage with the fiery, aromatic kick of Jamaican jerk seasoning. The kielbasa is grilled to perfection, infused with a house-made jerk marinade that includes ingredients like scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, and thyme, creating a balance of heat and depth that is uniquely satisfying. This dish is often served with a side of cabbage or a slice of hearty rye bread, nodding to Polish traditions while maintaining the Caribbean flair.

Another crowd favorite is the Pierogi with Jerk Chicken, a creative twist on the classic Polish dumpling. Traditionally, pierogi are filled with ingredients like cheese, potatoes, or meat, and served with sour cream or butter. At Poljam, Holcomb elevates this comfort food by stuffing the tender dough pockets with shredded jerk chicken, seasoned with the same bold spices that define Jamaican cuisine. The result is a dish that feels both familiar and excitingly new, bridging the gap between Eastern European and Caribbean flavors. Customers often rave about the contrast between the soft, pillowy pierogi and the zesty, spicy filling, making it a must-try item on the menu.

Beyond these signature dishes, Poljam offers a variety of other options that showcase Holcomb’s creativity and commitment to quality. For those craving something purely Jamaican, the truck serves up classic jerk chicken or pork, slow-cooked and bursting with flavor, often accompanied by rice and peas or fried plantains. On the Polish side, customers can enjoy traditional cabbage rolls, known as golabki, stuffed with a savory mix of meat and rice, simmered in a rich tomato sauce. These dishes are prepared with the same care and attention to detail that Holcomb learned from his family, ensuring that every bite feels like a home-cooked meal.

What sets Poljam apart from other food trucks in Minnesota is not just its unique fusion concept but also the personal story behind it. Holcomb’s journey to launching Poljam was not without challenges. He spent years working in various kitchens, honing his skills and experimenting with recipes that combined his cultural influences. The idea for a food truck came as a way to share his passion with a wider audience while maintaining the flexibility to connect directly with customers. Starting a food truck business required grit and determination, from securing permits to designing a mobile kitchen that could handle the demands of preparing both Polish and Jamaican dishes. Yet, Holcomb’s dedication to his craft and his desire to honor his heritage kept him pushing forward.

Poljam has become a beloved fixture in the Twin Cities food truck scene, often parked at local events, breweries, and farmers’ markets. The truck’s vibrant branding, with its bold colors and playful logo, reflects the energy and warmth that Holcomb brings to his work. Customers are drawn not only to the food but also to the story behind it, often striking up conversations with Holcomb about his background and the inspiration for his menu. This personal connection is a key part of the Poljam experience, making every meal feel like a shared celebration of culture and community.

The fusion of Polish and Jamaican cuisines also speaks to a broader trend in the culinary world, where chefs and food entrepreneurs are increasingly blending traditions to create something new. Poljam is a shining example of how food can transcend borders, bringing together flavors and techniques that might not otherwise meet. For Holcomb, this fusion is more than just a gimmick; it’s a reflection of his identity and a way to honor the people who shaped him. Every dish tells a story, whether it’s a memory of his grandmother rolling out dough for pierogi or his father grilling jerk chicken at a family barbecue.

In addition to its regular menu, Poljam often experiments with seasonal specials and limited-time offerings, keeping the experience fresh for returning customers. These specials might include a Jamaican-inspired twist on a Polish soup like borscht, incorporating tropical ingredients to complement the earthy beet base, or a Polish-style sandwich with a spicy Caribbean aioli. Holcomb’s willingness to play with flavors and push boundaries ensures that there’s always something new to try, even for longtime fans of the truck.

Poljam’s impact goes beyond just serving delicious food. It’s a reminder of the diversity that defines Minnesota’s culinary landscape, where immigrants and their descendants continue to shape the way we eat. The food truck serves as a cultural ambassador of sorts, introducing diners to the rich traditions of Poland and Jamaica, often sparking curiosity about the histories and stories behind the dishes. For many customers, a meal at Poljam is their first taste of pierogi or jerk seasoning, opening the door to a deeper appreciation of global cuisines.

As Poljam continues to roll through the streets of Minnesota, it carries with it a message of unity through food. Michael Holcomb’s creation is more than a business; it’s a labor of love, a tribute to his family, and a testament to the idea that our differences can be our greatest strengths. Whether you’re a fan of spicy jerk flavors, comforting Polish classics, or simply a lover of good food, Poljam offers something for everyone. It’s a culinary journey that starts with a single bite and leaves you hungry for more—not just for the food, but for the stories and connections that come with it.

Read the Full KSTP-TV Article at:
[ https://kstp.com/special-coverage/minnesota-live/food-truck-friday-poljam/ ]