Dish

Mămăliguță cu brânză și smântănă

Polenta with Cheese and Sour Cream

Mămăliguță cu brânză și smântănă is made by cooking cornmeal in water until it thickens and forms a porridge-like consistency. Grated cheese is then added and mixed in until melted. The mixture is then poured into a dish and allowed to cool. Once cooled, it is cut into slices and served with sour cream.

European cuisine› Eastern European cuisine› Romanian cuisine

Porridge

Origins and history

Mămăliguță cu brânză și smântănă has been a traditional dish in Romania for centuries. It was originally made from millet, but cornmeal became more popular in the 19th century. Mămăliguță cu brânză și smântănă was a staple food for farmers and was often eaten as a main dish.

Dietary considerations

Vegetarian

Variations

Mămăliguță cu brânză și smântănă can be made with different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese. It can also be made gluten-free by using cornmeal that is certified gluten-free.

Presentation and garnishing

Mămăliguță cu brânză și smântănă can be presented in a variety of ways, such as in a stack or arranged in a circular pattern. It can be garnished with fresh herbs or chopped vegetables.

Tips & Tricks

To make the perfect Mămăliguță cu brânză și smântănă, use a high-quality cornmeal and mix in the cheese while the mixture is still hot to ensure it melts evenly.