Traditional Romanian Mămăligă with Cheese and Sour Cream

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) cornmeal 2 cups (400g) cornmeal
• 4 cups (950ml) water 4 cups (950ml) water
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (100g) grated cheese (such as Telemea or Feta) 1 cup (100g) grated cheese (such as Telemea or Feta)
• 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 400 kcal / 1674 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 55g, 2g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cornmeal to the boiling water, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring for about 15-20 minutes, until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pot.
4. 4.
   Add the salt and mix well.
5. 5.
   Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly.
6. 6.
   Serve the Mămăligă hot, topped with grated cheese and a dollop of sour cream.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornmeal — Use fine or medium-grind cornmeal for a smoother texture in the Mămăligă.
• Cheese — Opt for a salty and crumbly cheese like Telemea or Feta to enhance the flavor of the dish.
• Sour cream — Choose a full-fat sour cream for a rich and creamy taste.

Tips & Tricks

• To prevent lumps, gradually add the cornmeal to the boiling water while stirring continuously.
• For a twist, you can add chopped herbs like dill or parsley to the Mămăligă for added freshness.
• Experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination.
• Leftover Mămăligă can be sliced and pan-fried for a delicious breakfast or snack.
• Serve the Mămăligă with a side of sausages or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Mămăligă hot, directly from the pot, with the cheese and sour cream generously sprinkled on top. The creamy and cheesy Mămăligă pairs well with a fresh salad or pickles on the side.

Presentation advice

Present the Mămăligă in a rustic-style bowl or on a wooden platter to showcase its traditional roots. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color.