Contest "Childhood Memories" Polenta with cheese and cracklings like grandma from Salaj

Polenta with cheese and crispy bacon like grandma from Salaj: A delicacy from memories

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn’t fondly remember family meals from childhood, when the aroma of traditional dishes filled our homes and brought us together? Polenta with cheese and crispy bacon is one of those delights that evokes warm memories and makes us feel grandma's love in every bite. This simple yet flavorful recipe not only delights our taste buds but also tells us about traditions and customs that have been passed down through generations.

The ingredients needed to prepare this delicacy are readily available, and the method is easy to follow, even for the less experienced cooks. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:
- 250g of cornmeal (for a firm polenta)
- 1 liter of water
- 200g of aged cheese or salty fatty cheese
- 150g of homemade smoked bacon
- 1 tablespoon of salt (for water)
- Optional: freshly ground pepper for an extra flavor

Necessary utensils:
- A large pot for polenta
- A frying pan for frying the bacon
- A wooden spatula
- A deep bowl for serving

Step by step:
1. Preparing the polenta:
- In a large pot, add 1 liter of water and 1 tablespoon of salt. Place the pot over high heat and wait for it to reach boiling point.
- When the water starts to boil, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly with a wooden spatula to avoid lumps. Continue to stir for about 5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium and let the polenta boil for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The polenta is ready when it becomes thick and easily separates from the pot's walls.

2. Preparing the bacon:
- In a frying pan, add the smoked bacon cut into small cubes. Place the pan over medium heat and fry the bacon until crispy and all the fat has melted. This process will release a delicious aroma that will enhance the final dish.
- Once the bacon is ready, remove it onto a paper towel to absorb the excess fat.

3. Assembling the dish:
- Take a deep bowl and grease the bottom with a little fat from the bacon. This step will add extra flavor and prevent the polenta from sticking.
- Sprinkle a layer of bacon on the bottom of the bowl, followed by a layer of crumbled aged cheese.
- Add a layer of polenta, spreading it evenly with a spoon dipped in fat. Repeat this process until you finish the ingredients, ensuring that the last layer is made of cheese and bacon.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Serving:
- Serve the polenta with cheese and bacon hot, drizzled with a few drops of olive oil or melted butter if you desire a richer taste.
- It can be accompanied by a hot pepper or pickles for a pleasant contrast of flavors.

A brief history:
Polenta is a staple food in many cultures, deeply rooted in culinary traditions. Combined with cheese and bacon, it is a perfect example of comfort food that brings together simple yet rich flavors, evoking pleasant childhood memories.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is an excellent source of carbohydrates thanks to the polenta, while the aged cheese provides a significant amount of protein and calcium. The smoked bacon, although rich in fats, offers a dose of essential fatty acids, but it is recommended to be consumed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with various cheeses, such as telemea cheese or well-drained cottage cheese, depending on your preferences.

- How can I reheat the polenta?
If the dish has cooled down, you can reheat it in the oven or on the stove over low heat for 5-10 minutes, covered with a lid to prevent drying out.

- What other dishes pair well with polenta?
Polenta with cheese and bacon is delicious alongside a fresh salad or as a side dish to meat dishes such as stews or stuffed cabbage rolls.

Possible variations:
For a lighter version, you can replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables, ideal for a vegetarian option. You can also add spices like oregano or thyme to give it a unique flavor.

Now that you have all the necessary details, take your time to enjoy the cooking process and remember the beautiful moments spent with loved ones. Polenta with cheese and bacon like grandma's is not just a dish, but a culinary experience full of emotion and nostalgia. Enjoy your meal!