World Recipe: Mămăligă

13 May World Recipe: Mămăligă

Mămăligă is a traditional Romanian dish similar to Italian polenta but denser, often served as a side for meats and cheeses.

Ingredients:

• 500 ml water
• 200 g cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 30 g butter (optional)
• Fresh cheese or sour cream for serving

Preparation:

• Bring the water and salt to a boil in a large pot.
• Gradually add the cornmeal while stirring constantly.

• Cook over low heat, stirring, until thick and smooth (about 10–15 minutes).

• Optionally, add butter for extra creaminess.
• Serve hot with fresh cheese or sour cream.

In Romania, mămăligă is a staple of traditional cuisine and often accompanies dishes like sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls).