Mamaliga Cu Branza Cornmeal Mush with Cheese
Experience a taste of traditional Romanian comfort food with Mamaliga Cu Branza, a hearty cornmeal mush layered with tangy cheese. This rustic dish, made with simple yet wholesome ingredients like medium-ground cornmeal, creamy butter, and crumbled feta or authentic brânză de burduf, celebrates the beauty of countryside cooking. The cornmeal is gently simmered and whisked to perfection, creating a soft, velvety base that pairs beautifully with the savory saltiness of the cheese. Serve it warm with a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of indulgence. Whether enjoyed as a satisfying main dish or a side, this recipe offers a delicious and nostalgic journey into Eastern European cuisine, perfect for cozy family meals or cultural celebrations.
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Ingredients
- 250 grams cornmeal (preferably medium-ground)
- 1 liter water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 50 grams butter
- 150 grams feta cheese (or traditional Romanian brânză de burduf)
- 100 grams sour cream (optional, for serving)
Directions
Step 1
In a medium pot, bring the water to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Add the salt to the boiling water.
Step 2
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Gradually add the cornmeal to the water in a steady stream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Step 3
Once all the cornmeal is incorporated, switch to a wooden spoon and continue stirring frequently. Cook the mixture for about 15-20 minutes, or until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pot.
Step 4
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the butter until fully melted and incorporated into the cornmeal mush.
Step 5
In a serving dish or a deep baking dish, spread half of the cooked cornmeal in an even layer.
Step 6
Crumble the feta cheese over the layer of cornmeal, distributing it evenly. If desired, you can add additional cheese for a richer flavor.
Step 7
Spread the remaining cornmeal over the cheese layer, smoothing it out with the back of a spoon or spatula.
Step 8
Let the dish cool slightly before slicing into portions. Serve warm, optionally topped with sour cream for added richness.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1570.4g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1898.3 |
| Total Fat 98.7g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 56.5g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g | |
| Cholesterol 301.4mg | 0% |
| Sodium 4396.1mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 206.8g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 18.2g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 7.8g | |
| Protein 42.7g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 8IU | 0% |
| Calcium 969.7mg | 0% |
| Iron 7.1mg | 0% |
| Potassium 635.0mg | 0% |
Source of Calories