Balmos

Balmos – A Romanian Delicacy with a Touch of Tradition

Balmos is an iconic recipe of Romanian cuisine, rich in history and tradition. This simple yet delicious dish is a perfect way to savor the authentic taste of local products. Essentially, balmos is a preparation made from cornmeal and jintuiala, a unique ingredient derived from sheep's milk whey. Cooked with patience and care, balmos becomes a symbol of Romanian hospitality.

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 2 liters of jintuiala (rich whey from sheep's milk)
- 2 tablespoons of salt
- 600 g of cornmeal

A Bit of History:
Balmos is an ancient dish that has been cooked through generations in Romanian villages. Its origins are linked to the customs of shepherds who, during the summer, grazed their flocks on pastures. Jintuiala was an accessible and valuable ingredient, and combining it with cornmeal led to a nourishing meal. By the wood fire, the spirit of community intertwined with the aroma of food, creating unique moments of conviviality.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Balmos:

1. Heat the fire:
Start by making a fire in the outdoor oven. Use quality wood and wait until the embers become stable. It is important to maintain a low flame throughout the cooking process.

2. Prepare the jintuiala:
Take a large pot and add the jintuiala. Ensure it is of good quality, with a rich fat and protein content. Choose jintuiala from a trusted producer to achieve an authentic taste.

3. Add the salt:
Put the two tablespoons of salt in the jintuiala and bring the mixture to a boil. Try not to stir at this point, allowing the jintuiala to reach its natural boiling point.

4. Incorporate the cornmeal:
When the jintuiala starts boiling and a foam forms on top, add all the cornmeal at once. It is crucial not to stir at first, to allow the cornmeal to absorb evenly into the liquid.

5. Simmer:
Let the balmos simmer, adding a piece of wood to the fire when necessary. This will maintain a constant temperature and allow the ingredients to combine harmoniously. It is ideal to simmer the balmos for about 45 minutes.

6. Stir vigorously:
At the end of the 45 minutes, start stirring the balmos vigorously to avoid lumps. This is when the dish begins to thicken.

7. Finish cooking:
Continue to simmer the balmos for another 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice that the texture becomes creamy and shiny, a sign that you have achieved quality jintuiala.

Serving and Suggestions:
Balmos is served hot, either on its own or alongside a green salad soup. The latter will add a note of freshness to the dish, balancing the rich flavors of the balmos.

Variations and Tips:
- If you want to experiment, you can add sheep cheese or telemea during cooking for an even more intense flavor.
- Balmos pairs excellently with various pickles or a tomato salad for a pleasant contrast.
- Feel free to use herbs like dill or parsley to enhance the aroma.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
Balmos is a nourishing dish, rich in proteins and healthy fats due to the jintuiala. A serving can contain approximately 450-500 calories, providing enough energy for an active day. It is a good source of calcium, essential for bone health, and B vitamins, which contribute to energy metabolism.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use another type of whey?
Traditional balmos is made with jintuiala, but if you can't find it, you can use cow's milk whey, although the taste will be different.

2. Is balmos vegetarian?
Yes, balmos is a vegetarian dish, but it is not vegan due to the jintuiala coming from milk.

3. How long can I keep balmos?
Balmos keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat it over low heat, adding a little water or milk to restore its texture.

In conclusion, balmos is more than just a simple dish. It is a journey into the heart of Romanian traditions, a culinary experience that brings joy and comfort. Don't hesitate to explore and personalize this recipe, transforming it into the centerpiece of your meal. Savor every bite and let yourself be carried away by its delicious story!