Creamy Polenta with Cheese (Mămăligă cu Brânză)

Mămăligă cu Brânză, or Creamy Polenta with Cheese, is a traditional Romanian dish that is simple, comforting, and incredibly delicious. This creamy polenta is enriched with the savory flavor of cheese, making it a perfect side dish or even a main course.

Creamy Polenta with Cheese (Mămăligă cu Brânză)

Ingredients

  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup grated cheese (such as telemea, feta, or parmesan)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
  2. Gradually add the cornmeal to the boiling water, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  3. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking the polenta, stirring frequently, for about 30 minutes or until it thickens and the cornmeal is tender.
  4. Stir in the salt and grated cheese until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the polenta.
  5. Remove the pot from the heat and let the polenta rest for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
10 minutes
Cooking time:
30 minutes
Total time:
40 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
250
Carbohydrates
35g
Protein
10g
Fat
8g

Supplies

Large pot Stirring spoon

Tools

Grater (for cheese)

Serving suggestions

Serve the creamy polenta with cheese as a side dish to grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a comforting and filling meal.

Tips & tricks

For extra creaminess, you can stir in a knob of butter or a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking.

Cost

Low