World Food Tour – Romania
A Traditional and Hearty Romanian Comfort Dish
Mămăligă cu Brânză în Pături is a layered Romanian dish made with creamy mămăligă (polenta), brânză (cheese), and smântână (sour cream). This dish is a comforting and filling staple in Romanian cuisine, often enjoyed as a main course or a rich side dish. The name “în pături” translates to “in blankets”, referring to the layers of cheese wrapped between soft polenta.
Mămăligă is one of Romania’s most traditional foods, deeply rooted in peasant cuisine, and this version elevates it into a decadent, cheesy delight that is both rustic and satisfying.
The History: A Dish of Rural Romanian Origins
Mămăligă has been a staple in Romanian and Moldovan kitchens for centuries, dating back to the 16th century, when corn (maize) was introduced from the Americas. Originally, mămăligă was a humble peasant dish, replacing wheat-based bread for many rural families.
Over time, mămăligă evolved into a versatile dish, often combined with local cheeses and dairy products to create richer, more satisfying meals. Mămăligă cu Brânză în Pături is a beloved variation that layers cheese between soft polenta, creating a dish that is both hearty and indulgent.
This dish is commonly served in Romanian households, restaurants, and even at traditional countryside feasts, often enjoyed with a glass of fresh milk or sour cream on the side.
What is Mămăligă cu Brânză în Pături?
This dish consists of layers of creamy, golden mămăligă (polenta), crumbled cheese, and thick sour cream, baked or assembled into a warm, cheesy casserole.
Essential Ingredients:
- Cornmeal (Mălai): The base ingredient, cooked into a smooth, creamy polenta.
- Brânză de Burduf or Feta Cheese: A salty, crumbly cheese used between the layers.
- Smântână (Romanian Sour Cream): Adds richness and creaminess to the dish.
- Eggs (Optional): Sometimes whisked into the mămăligă for a softer texture.
- Butter: For extra richness and a silky mouthfeel.
Some variations include layers of ham, bacon (slănină), or even fried eggs on top for extra indulgence.
Tasting Notes: Creamy, Cheesy, and Comforting
Mămăligă cu Brânză în Pături is rich and satisfying, with a perfect balance of textures and flavors:
- The mămăligă is smooth, buttery, and slightly sweet, providing a soft base.
- The cheese is tangy and salty, cutting through the richness of the polenta.
- The smântână adds a creamy, slightly sour contrast, enhancing every bite.
- If bacon or eggs are added, they bring an extra layer of depth and texture.
This dish is both rustic and elegant, making it a favorite in traditional Romanian cuisine.
How Mămăligă cu Brânză în Pături is Served
This dish is traditionally served hot and fresh, often in a large baking dish or individual portions.
Traditional Serving Styles:
- Plain, with a dollop of sour cream – The classic way to enjoy it.
- With Fried Eggs & Bacon (Ciolan Afumat or Slănină) – A heartier, richer version.
- With Pickles or Fresh Tomatoes – For a refreshing contrast.
- With Garlic Sauce or Butter – To enhance the flavors even further.
Mămăligă cu Brânză în Pături is often paired with a glass of fresh milk, buttermilk, or even a dry white wine.
Why Mămăligă cu Brânză în Pături is a Romanian Favorite
✔ Simple Yet Satisfying – Made with just a few ingredients, yet deeply flavorful.
✔ Rich in Tradition – A dish with centuries of history in Romanian households.
✔ Versatile & Customizable – Can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course.
✔ Warm & Comforting – The perfect meal for cold winter nights.
✔ A Symbol of Romanian Hospitality – Often served at family gatherings and celebrations.
From cozy countryside kitchens to modern Romanian restaurants, Mămăligă cu Brânză în Pături remains a beloved comfort dish, bringing warmth and nostalgia with every bite.