Polenta with sheep cheese like in Maramureș (in beds)

Polenta with sheep cheese like in Maramureș: a rustic delicacy

Who hasn't heard of polenta with cheese, a dish that reminds us of childhood and family meals? This traditional recipe from Maramureș is a true feast, ideal for a hearty breakfast or even a comforting dinner. Polenta, a staple food in many cultures, has been cherished for centuries for its versatility and simplicity. Today, I invite you to discover together how to prepare polenta with sheep cheese, sausages, and smoked bacon, in a way that will delight your taste buds.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 6 minutes
Total time: 21 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 grams of matured and salted sheep cheese
- 200 grams of polenta (made from 1 liter of water and 250 grams of cornmeal)
- 100 grams of sausages (preferably smoked)
- 100 grams of smoked bacon
- 200 ml of sour cream (optional, for serving)

Preparing the polenta:
1. Start by boiling 1 liter of water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor of the polenta.
2. When the water is boiling, gradually add 250 grams of cornmeal, stirring continuously with a whisk or a wooden spoon. This will prevent lumps from forming.
3. Once the polenta starts to thicken, reduce the heat to medium and continue stirring for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes creamy and consistent. The polenta should be slightly soft but hold its shape.

Assembling the dish:
1. In a baking dish, you can use a ceramic or glass dish, start building the layers of the dish. Add a first layer of polenta, about 2-3 cm thick.
2. Follow with a layer of crumbled sheep cheese, sliced sausages, and diced bacon. Try to evenly cover the polenta.
3. Repeat the process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of polenta on top. This layer will help retain the moisture of the dish and create a delicious texture.

Baking:
1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
2. Place the dish in the oven for 5-6 minutes, until the dish is well heated and possibly slightly browned on top. The flavors will blend perfectly, and the cheese will melt a little, creating an irresistible crust.

Serving:
1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before portioning.
2. Serve warm, with a spoonful of sour cream on top, for an extra creaminess. Polenta with cheese is delicious paired with a glass of red wine or a cold beer, which will highlight the intense flavors of the ingredients.

Practical tips:
- If you can't find sheep cheese, you can use telemea cheese. However, sheep cheese will provide a richer taste and better texture.
- Sausages can be replaced with ham or bacon, depending on your preferences.
- You can also add grilled vegetables or pickles for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Nutritional benefits:
Polenta is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. Sheep cheese is rich in protein and calcium, contributing to bone health. Sausages and bacon add protein and healthy fats, but their consumption should be moderate.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can polenta be prepared in advance?
Yes, polenta can be prepared a few hours ahead and kept at room temperature. Reheat it before serving.
2. Can I adapt the recipe to be vegetarian?
Sure! You can omit the sausages and bacon and add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, which will add extra flavor.

Possible variations:
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, adding feta or mozzarella for a different note.
- Instead of sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier option and creamy texture.

Polenta with sheep cheese like in Maramureș is not just a delicious dish, but also a vivid memory of culinary tradition. I hope you will try this recipe and that it will bring joy to your kitchen!