Recipe

Balkan Cornmeal Mash with Cheese

Savory Balkan Delight: Creamy Cornmeal Mash with Cheese

4.4 out of 5

Indulge in the flavors of Balkan cuisine with this authentic recipe for Balkan Cornmeal Mash with Cheese. This traditional dish is a comforting and hearty meal that combines creamy cornmeal with rich cheese, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful experience.

Porridge› Kačamak

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Balkan cuisine

Preparation time

10 minutes

Cooking time

20 minutes

Total time

30 minutes

Yields

4 servings

Preparation difficulty

Easy

Suitable for

Vegetarian, Gluten-free, Nut-free, Egg-free, Soy-free

Allergens

Dairy

Not suitable for

Vegan, Dairy-free, Paleo, Keto, Low-carb

Ingredients

2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
1 cup (160g) cornmeal 1 cup (160g) cornmeal
1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
1 cup (100g) mixed cheeses (feta, mozzarella, cheddar), grated 1 cup (100g) mixed cheeses (feta, mozzarella, cheddar), grated
2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 8g
Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 2g
Protein: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1.
In a medium-sized pot, bring the water to a boil.
2.
Gradually add the cornmeal to the boiling water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
3.
Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring until the mixture thickens and the cornmeal is fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes.
4.
Stir in the salt and grated cheeses until the cheese is melted and well incorporated.
5.
Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and combined.
6.
Serve the Balkan Cornmeal Mash with Cheese hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

Cornmeal — Make sure to use fine cornmeal for a smoother texture in the mash.
Mixed cheeses — Feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses to suit your taste preferences. However, make sure to include a combination of both soft and hard cheeses for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Tricks

For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of milk or cream to the cornmeal mash.
To enhance the flavor, you can add a pinch of paprika or garlic powder to the dish.
Serve the Balkan Cornmeal Mash with Cheese alongside a fresh salad or pickled vegetables for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Balkan Cornmeal Mash with Cheese hot, either as a main dish or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It pairs well with a glass of red wine or a refreshing yogurt-based drink.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, serve the Balkan Cornmeal Mash with Cheese in individual clay pots or small cast-iron skillets. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.