Romanian Polenta Casserole (Mămăligă cu Brânză şi Smântână)

Mămăligă cu Brânză şi Smântână, also known as Romanian Polenta Casserole, is a traditional Romanian dish that combines creamy polenta with tangy cheese and sour cream for a comforting and hearty meal.

Vegetarian Main Course Romanian Traditional Comfort Food Casserole
Romanian Polenta Casserole (Mămăligă cu Brânză şi Smântână)

Ingredients

  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup grated Romanian telemea cheese (or feta cheese as a substitute)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
  2. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and salt, then reduce the heat to low.
  3. Cook the polenta, stirring constantly, for about 30 minutes or until thickened.
  4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Spread half of the cooked polenta in the bottom of a greased casserole dish.
  6. Sprinkle half of the grated cheese over the polenta.
  7. Layer the remaining polenta on top, followed by the rest of the grated cheese.
  8. Dollop the sour cream over the top of the casserole.
  9. Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
45 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Carbohydrates
45g
Protein
12g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Large pot Whisk Casserole dish

Tools

Oven

Serving suggestions

Serve the Mămăligă cu Brânză şi Smântână with a fresh green salad and a glass of Romanian wine for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a twist, try adding crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms to the layers of the casserole for extra flavor and texture.

Cost

$10