Polenta with Feta and Sour Cream

Polenta with Feta and Sour Cream Recipe from Moldova | Vegetarian Dish

Region / culture: Moldova | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Polenta with Feta and Sour Cream is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the creamy texture of polenta with the tangy flavor of feta cheese and the richness of sour cream. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for a dinner party.

History

Polenta is a traditional Italian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is made by boiling cornmeal in water or milk until it reaches a creamy consistency. Feta cheese, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, adds a salty and tangy flavor to the dish. Sour cream provides a creamy and slightly tangy contrast to the rich polenta and feta cheese.

Ingredients

mamaliga
1 cup of crumbled sheep feta cheese
sour cream or yogurt

How to prepare

Prepare a medium soft polenta by combining equal amounts of water and milk.
Once the polenta is cooked, incorporate a cup of crumbled sheep feta cheese and mix until the cheese is thoroughly combined.
Transfer the polenta onto plates and serve immediately, ensuring it is piping hot. Accompany with a dollop of sour cream.

Variations

Add roasted vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers to the dish.
Top the polenta with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for added flavor.
Substitute goat cheese for feta cheese for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the polenta constantly while cooking to prevent lumps from forming.

- Use a good quality feta cheese for the best flavor.

- Serve the dish immediately after cooking to ensure the polenta is hot and creamy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Polenta with Feta and Sour Cream as a side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a comforting meal.

Cooking Techniques

Use a heavy-bottomed pot to cook the polenta to prevent burning.

- Stir the polenta constantly while cooking to ensure a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use goat cheese or blue cheese instead of feta cheese.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the polenta ahead of time and reheat before serving.

- Store leftover polenta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the polenta in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation. - Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Polenta with Feta and Sour Cream with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

- Serve with a side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover polenta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or milk to maintain the creamy texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Polenta with Feta and Sour Cream contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Polenta is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body. One serving of this dish contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Feta cheese and sour cream add a moderate amount of fat to this dish. One serving contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Feta cheese is a good source of protein, providing essential amino acids for the body. One serving of this dish contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Feta cheese is a good source of calcium, which is important for bone health. It also contains vitamin A and vitamin B12. Polenta provides iron and magnesium.

Alergens

This dish contains dairy (feta cheese and sour cream) and corn (polenta), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Polenta with Feta and Sour Cream is a balanced dish that provides carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying and flavorful meal option.

Summary

Polenta with Feta and Sour Cream is a delicious and comforting dish that combines creamy polenta with tangy feta cheese and rich sour cream. This dish is easy to prepare and makes a satisfying meal or side dish. Enjoy the flavors of Italy and Greece in this simple and flavorful recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Sophia in her cozy little cottage by the countryside. Sophia was known for her delicious homemade meals, and I always looked forward to our culinary adventures together.

That day, as we sat in her sunlit kitchen sipping tea and catching up on old times, Sophia suddenly remembered a recipe she had been wanting to share with me. She rummaged through her collection of old recipe cards and handed me a worn piece of paper with handwritten instructions for Polenta with Feta and Sour Cream.

"Trust me, this dish is a game-changer," she said with a twinkle in her eye. "It's a family recipe passed down from generations, and I know you'll love it."

I was intrigued. I had never tried Polenta with Feta and Sour Cream before, but the combination of creamy polenta, tangy feta cheese, and velvety sour cream sounded absolutely divine. I thanked Sophia for her generosity and made a mental note to try out the recipe as soon as I got back home.

When I returned to my own kitchen, I gathered all the ingredients I needed to make the dish. The recipe called for simple pantry staples like cornmeal, water, salt, feta cheese, and sour cream. As I stirred the cornmeal into boiling water and watched it thicken into a smooth and creamy consistency, I couldn't help but marvel at the magical transformation taking place before my eyes.

Once the polenta was ready, I crumbled in the tangy feta cheese and stirred it until it melted into a rich and creamy sauce. The aroma that wafted from the pot was heavenly, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

I spooned the steaming polenta into a bowl and dolloped a generous amount of sour cream on top. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of flavors and textures that danced on my taste buds. The creamy polenta was the perfect canvas for the salty feta cheese and the cool tanginess of the sour cream. It was a symphony of flavors that left me craving for more.

From that day on, Polenta with Feta and Sour Cream became a staple in my culinary repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on lazy weekends. Each time I cooked the dish, I would think of Sophia and the special bond we shared over our love for good food and great company.

Over the years, I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different herbs and spices to enhance the flavors even more. Sometimes I would top the dish with roasted vegetables or crispy bacon for an extra indulgent touch. But no matter how I choose to serve it, Polenta with Feta and Sour Cream always brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia that reminds me of the day I discovered this culinary gem.

As I sit here reminiscing about that fateful summer day with Sophia, I can't help but feel grateful for the simple pleasures in life, like sharing a delicious meal with a dear friend. And as I continue to cook and create in my kitchen, I know that the memories and stories behind each recipe will always hold a special place in my heart.