Contents
This Traditional Romanian Polenta with Sour Cream and Cheese is a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to every meal. Made with golden, creamy polenta, tangy sour cream, and crumbled feta cheese, this dish is simple yet deeply satisfying—a staple of Romanian cuisine. 🇷🇴✨
Ingredients
For the Polenta:
- 1 cup coarse cornmeal
- 4 cups water
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tablespoons butter 🧈
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (or Romanian telemea cheese) 🧀
- Fresh basil or parsley leaves for garnish 🌿
Instructions
Prepare the Polenta:
- In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
- Slowly whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Reduce heat to low, add salt, and stir frequently for 20-30 minutes, until the polenta thickens and becomes creamy.
- Stir in butter until fully melted.
Serve the Polenta:
- Spoon the hot polenta onto a large serving dish or individual plates, shaping it into a soft mound.
Add the Toppings:
- Create a small well in the center of the polenta.
- Spoon the sour cream into the well, allowing it to melt slightly.
- Generously sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.
Garnish & Enjoy!
- Finish with a touch of fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor and color.
- Serve immediately and enjoy while warm! 😍
Notes
Mămăliga cu smântână și brânză is one of the most iconic dishes in Romanian cuisine. Simple, nourishing, and versatile, this comforting recipe combines golden polenta with tangy sour cream and salty cheese, creating a meal that is both rustic and satisfying. It is often enjoyed as a side dish but can also stand on its own when paired with toppings like fried eggs, bacon, or sautéed mushrooms.🌟 Why You’ll Love This Dish
✔ Authentic Romanian comfort food – A staple of traditional cooking.✔ Budget-friendly and easy to prepare – Just a few pantry staples needed.
✔ Versatile and customizable – Works as both a side dish or a main course.
✔ Pairs with many flavors – Complements meat dishes, vegetables, or stands alone.
💡 Pro Tips for the Best Polenta
- Use coarse cornmeal: It gives the best texture and authentic taste.
- Whisk constantly: Prevents lumps and ensures a creamy consistency.
- Customize your toppings: Add fried eggs, crispy bacon, or mushrooms for variety.
- Let it rest: For a firmer texture, allow the polenta to cool slightly before serving.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- With sour cream and cheese – the traditional way.
- Alongside meat stews or grilled dishes.
- As a base for fried eggs and sausages.
- Served firm and sliced, similar to bread.
Oh my goodness, this looks amazing! Mămăliguță is one of my favorite things, and that feta topping… drool. Can’t wait to try this recipe, especially the bit about using telemea if I can find it! Thanks for sharing!