Mamaliga Recipe 455

MAMALIGA

Steps:

• Heat the water and add the salt.
• When the water starts to boil, pour the cornmeal all at once and start stirring with a wooden spoon.
• The cornmeal will begin to bubble soon, at which point turn the heat down, but carry on stirring to prevent the formation of lumps.
• Wet the tail end of a wooden spoon with water and insert it into the mamaliga. If it is done, this will come out clean.

MAMALIGA CU BRANZA (CORNMEAL MUSH WITH CHEESE)

Steps:

• To prepare the Mamaliga, mix the cornmeal,and salt together with 1 1/2 c cold water and set it aside to soften.
• Bring 4 cups water to a hard boil.
• Add the cornmeal mixture to the boiling water, stirring constantly.
• When the Mamaliga begins to thicken, cover, and cook over lower heat, for about 30 minutes, stirring periodically; do not allow Mamaliga to burn. Now you are ready for the cheese.
• Divide the butter into 3 equal parts.
• Divide the grated cheese into two equal parts.
• Divide the cooked cornmeal into two equal parts.
• To a casserole dish, add 1/3 of the butter and 1/2 of the cooked cornmeal.
• Add an additional 1/3 of the butter, and 1/2 of the grated cheese.
• Add second 1/2 of the cooked cornmeal, butter and cheese.
• Top with the sour cream.
• Bake 1 hour at 350°F.