A plate of traditional Romanian polenta (Mămăliguță) with sour cream and crumbled feta cheese, garnished with fresh basil, served on a rustic wooden table.

Traditional Romanian Polenta with Sour Cream and Cheese – Mămăliguță cu Brânză și Smântână

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. 🇷🇴✨
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine Romanian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Polenta:

  • 1 cup coarse cornmeal
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon 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

tep-by-step process of making Traditional Romanian Polenta (Mămăliguță)
Step into the warm embrace of cherished memories and comforting aromas as we invite you into the heart of Romanian culinary tradition! Today, we’re sharing a beloved classic that has graced family tables for generations—Traditional Romanian Polenta with Sour Cream and Cheese. 🧀✨
This dish is more than just food—it’s a journey back to the days when my dear Nan would prepare it with love, filling our home with the rich, buttery scent of golden polenta. The bubbling pot, the gentle whisking, and the final creamy, cheesy topping made every meal feel like a celebration. 🎉

🌽 Why You’ll Love This Dish

Authentic Romanian Comfort Food – A simple, nourishing dish that warms both the body and soul.
Budget-Friendly & Easy to Make – Made with just a handful of pantry staples.
Versatile & Customizable – Enjoy it as a side dish or a main course with additional toppings like fried eggs, crispy bacon, or caramelized onions. 🥓🍳

💡 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 a fried egg 🍳, crispy bacon 🥓, or sautéed mushrooms 🍄 for extra richness.
Let It Rest – If you prefer a firmer texture, let the polenta cool slightly before serving.

🏡 Taste the Tradition

Every spoonful of this comforting dish tells a story of Romanian heritage, bringing back memories of cozy family meals and the love woven into each bite. ❤️
As the steam rises from the warm polenta, and the cheese slowly melts into its golden embrace, you’ll understand why this dish is so deeply cherished in Romanian culture. It’s simple, yet incredibly satisfying—a true taste of home. 🏠
Gather your loved ones, set the table, and let this Traditional Romanian Polenta with Sour Cream and Cheese bring warmth and joy to your kitchen! ✨
Poftă bună! (Enjoy your meal!) 🍽️🥰
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Keyword easy polenta recipe, how to make polenta, mamaliga recipe, polenta with sour cream, Romanian comfort food, Romanian cuisine, Romanian polenta, traditional Romanian food
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