Transylvanian bulz

Enjoy the traditional flavor of Transylvanian bulz, a rustic dish that combines intense flavors and delicious textures, perfect for savoring on cool days or at a family meal. This recipe is simple yet full of character, with a rich history and a combination of ingredients that will captivate you from the first taste.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients
- 1 kg of cornmeal (ideally use high-quality cornmeal for a creamy polenta)
- 250 g of homemade sausages (you can use smoked sausages for a more intense flavor)
- 250 g of kaizer or bacon (choose a fattier option for extra flavor)
- 500 g of burduf cheese (you can opt for goat cheese or feta cheese, depending on your preferences)
- 4 eggs (fresh, from a trusted source)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)

Preparation of Transylvanian bulz

Step 1: Preparing the cornmeal
1. In a large pot, bring 3 liters of water to a boil, adding a teaspoon of salt.
2. When the water is boiling, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly with a whisk to avoid lumps.
3. Reduce the heat to medium and continue stirring for about 15-20 minutes, until the cornmeal becomes creamy and pulls away from the sides of the pot. Turn off the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Preparing the meats
1. In a large skillet, add the sliced sausages and diced kaizer or bacon. Fry them over medium heat until browned and crispy.
2. Once ready, remove them to a plate and let them cool slightly.

Step 3: Assembling the bulz
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Generously grease a baking dish with butter (for a richer taste).
3. Spread a first layer of polenta evenly, covering the bottom of the dish.
4. Add 2/3 of the burduf cheese, crumbled with a fork, over this layer of polenta.
5. Place half of the fried sausages and kaizer on top of the cheese.
6. Cover with the remaining polenta, sealing the layers well.
7. Add the remaining sausages and kaizer, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and finally, crack the 4 raw eggs, ensuring they are evenly spaced.

Step 4: Baking
1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 10 minutes, until the eggs are well cooked and the cheese melts and becomes golden.
2. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Serving
Transylvanian bulz is served hot, ideally alongside a summer salad or pickles to balance the richness of the dish. You can accompany this dish with a glass of dry red wine or craft beer to complete the culinary experience.

Useful tips
- Calories and nutritional benefits: This recipe is rich in protein and healthy fats due to the meat and cheese, while also containing carbohydrates from the cornmeal. It is a hearty meal, perfect for chilly days, that will provide you with energy for the entire day.
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the sausages and kaizer with mushrooms or fried vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Cook in advance: The bulz can be prepared a day ahead and reheated in the oven before serving, retaining its flavors.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella, depending on your tastes.

2. How can I improve the texture of the cornmeal?
Make sure to stir constantly during boiling to avoid lumps. You can also add a bit of butter or cream for a creamier taste.

3. What are the best accompaniments for bulz?
Homemade pickles or a fresh salad of tomatoes and cucumbers are the perfect choice to add freshness.

This recipe for Transylvanian bulz will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring a touch of culinary tradition charm. Each bite will remind you of family meals, shared stories, and joyful moments. So, put on your apron and unleash your creativity in the kitchen!