Brașov lunch

Brașov Lunch: Bulz with Sausages and Pickled Mushrooms

Today, I invite you to dive into the heart of traditional Romanian flavors with a Brașov lunch recipe that perfectly combines aromas and tradition. We will prepare a delicious bulz, accompanied by juicy sausages and pickled mushrooms, a delicacy that adds a touch of freshness and flavor. This lunch is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that tells a story about traditions and the joy of cooking.

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

Ingredients

For bulz:
- 1 liter of water
- 400 g cornmeal
- 300 g goat cheese (or burduf cheese)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2-3 tablespoons homemade lard or oil (for frying the sausages)

For sausages:
- 500 g spicy turkey sausages (or pork sausages, according to preference)

For garnish:
- Pickled mushrooms (various types)

The story behind the recipe

Bulz is a traditional Romanian dish, a symbol of hospitality and hearty meals, often served during holidays or family gatherings. This dish was originally created out of necessity to utilize local ingredients, and today, bulz has become a delicacy that pays homage to our culinary traditions.

Preparation technique

1. Preparing the polenta for bulz

Start by boiling water in a large pot, adding a teaspoon of salt. When the water starts to boil, sprinkle in a little cornmeal (about a handful) and stir continuously to avoid lumps.

After a few minutes, when the water is boiling, gradually add the remaining cornmeal. Keep stirring constantly to achieve a smooth consistency. If you notice that the polenta is too soft, you can add a little more cornmeal, stirring constantly. Boil the polenta for about 5 minutes, maintaining continuous stirring.

2. Preparing the bulz

To create the bulz, you will need a pot or a heat-resistant dish. Add a few tablespoons of lard or oil in which you have fried the sausages. Place a layer of polenta, followed by crumbled goat cheese, then another layer of polenta, and more cheese. Repeat this process until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a layer of polenta.

Place the bulz in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about 10 minutes, until the cheese melts and turns golden.

3. Preparing the sausages

While the bulz is in the oven, you can prepare the sausages. You can fry them in a pan with a little oil or lard until they become brown and crispy, which will add a delicious texture to the dish.

4. Assembling the dish

On a platter, arrange a portion of warm bulz, alongside fried sausages and pickled mushrooms. This combination of flavors and textures will create a memorable lunch.

Practical tips

- Cheese: Choose a quality goat cheese, as it will add a distinct flavor to the bulz. If you prefer a milder taste, you can opt for cottage cheese or telemea cheese.

- Sausages: Turkey sausages are a healthier option, but you can also use pork sausages for a richer taste. The spicy flavor will perfectly complement the aromas of the bulz.

- Pickled mushrooms: Pickled mushrooms are not only delicious but also very healthy. These mushrooms are rich in vitamins and minerals, and their pickling gives them a tangy taste that contrasts perfectly with the warm dish.

Nutritional information

This recipe for bulz with sausages and pickled mushrooms is an excellent source of protein and carbohydrates, ideal for a hearty meal. A serving of bulz contains approximately 550-600 calories, depending on the type of sausages used and the amount of cheese. The polenta provides fiber, while the pickled mushrooms add antioxidants.

Variations and serving suggestions

- Variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, to change the flavors. You can also add spices like pepper or marjoram to the polenta for a more intense taste.

- Serving suggestions: This Brașov lunch pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or fresh must. Additionally, a simple green salad or a tomato salad with onion will add a pleasant contrast and complete the meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I replace the sausages with another type of meat?
Of course! You can use pork, chicken, or even vegan sausages, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I make the bulz lighter?
If you want a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cheese and use low-fat sausages.

3. Can I prepare the bulz in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the bulz a few hours in advance, and before serving, just put it in the oven to reheat.

Conclusion

The Brașov lunch with bulz, sausages, and pickled mushrooms is more than just a simple meal; it is an invitation to savor the tradition and rich flavors of Romanian cuisine. I encourage you to try this recipe at home and bring a touch of authenticity to your kitchen. Whether it’s a holiday or simply a day to treat yourself, this lunch will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!