Step into the warm embrace of cherished memories and comforting aromas as we invite you into the heart of our family kitchen. Today, we share a recipe that goes beyond mere sustenance; it’s a journey back to the days when my Nan, the heartbeat of our home, would grace our table with a timeless classic—Traditional Romanian Polenta with Sour Cream and Cheese.

In the rhythm of our weekly routine, there was a day dedicated to the simple joy of polenta, a dish that transcended generations and brought us together around the table. The sound of water simmering, the gradual incorporation of cornmeal, and the aroma of butter melding into the golden goodness created a symphony of anticipation.

Traditional Romanian Polenta with Sour Cream and Cheese

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Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Ingredients

  

Ingredients:

For the Polenta:

• 1 cup coarse cornmeal
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter

For the Topping:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup feta cheese crumbled
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

 

Instructions:

Prepare the Polenta:

• a. In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
• b. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal to avoid lumps.
• c. Reduce heat to low, add salt, and simmer, stirring frequently, for about 20-30 minutes until the polenta thickens and becomes creamy.
• d. Stir in butter until melted.

Serve:

• a. Spoon the hot polenta onto a serving plate or individual plates, shaping it into a mound.

Add Toppings:

• a. Create a well in the center of the polenta.
• b. Spoon sour cream into the well.
• c. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.
• Garnish and Enjoy:
• a. Garnish the polenta with fresh basil leaves or parsley.
• b. Serve immediately, allowing the cheese to melt into the warm polenta.
• Taste the Tradition:
• Delight in the comforting simplicity of Traditional Romanian Polenta, elevated by the rich creaminess of sour cream and the savory kick of feta cheese. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a journey into the heart of Romanian culinary tradition.

Nan, with her seasoned hands and a heart full of love, transformed humble ingredients into a dish that spoke volumes about tradition, warmth, and the unspoken language of comfort. The polenta, a canvas for family stories, bore witness to laughter, shared tales, and the unspoken bond that strengthened with each comforting bite.

As the bubbling pot released its steam, we knew we were in for a treat. The polenta, served in generous mounds, became a blank canvas waiting to be adorned with the crowning glory—luscious sour cream and the crumbled richness of feta cheese. Each spoonful carried the essence of our heritage, a taste of home that lingered on our tongues and in our hearts.

Join us in recreating this cherished ritual, a tradition that resonates with the heartbeat of Romanian homes.