Proja s Slaninom

Proja s Slaninom Recipe from Croatia | Ingredients: Cornmeal, Bacon, and Feta

Region / culture: Croatia | Preparation time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 8

Introduction

Proja s Slaninom is a traditional Serbian cornbread dish that is packed with flavor from the addition of bacon and feta cheese. This savory bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish for a hearty meal.

History

Proja s Slaninom has been a staple in Serbian cuisine for generations. The combination of cornmeal, bacon, and feta cheese creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that is loved by many.

Ingredients

1 tsp sugar
0.25 cup warm water
1.5 tbsp (1.5 packets) dry yeast
1 cup cornmeal
0.75 cup all-purpose flour
4 eggs, beaten
3 tbsp cooking oil
1 cup sour milk [1]
1 tbsp salt
1 cup cooked crumbled bacon
0.5 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

How to prepare

In a small bowl, sprinkle the sugar with warm water, add yeast, and allow it to rise in a warm place until bubbling, about 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, eggs, cooking oil, sour milk, and salt.
Fold the mixture over once, then add the yeast.
Turn the mixture onto a floured board and knead until smooth.
Cover and let it rise for about 1 hour.
After it has risen, punch it down and add the bacon and cheese if desired. Mix well.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Pour the mixture onto a greased and floured 9 x 11 inches baking dish.
Allow the dough to rise again for about 20 minutes.
Bake for about 1 hour.
Let it cool slightly, and cut it into squares to serve.
The corn bread tastes best when served warm.
Serve it on its own or on a platter with cold cuts and a selection of cheeses.

Variations

Add chopped green onions or jalapenos for a spicy kick.
Substitute the bacon with cooked sausage or ham for a different flavor.
Use different types of cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella for a twist on the traditional recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to allow the yeast to rise properly before adding it to the cornmeal mixture.

- Knead the dough until smooth to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

- Adding bacon and feta cheese is optional, but highly recommended for extra flavor.

- Serve the cornbread warm for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Proja s Slaninom can be served on its own as a snack or side dish, or paired with cold cuts and cheeses for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Properly kneading the dough is essential for a light and fluffy texture.

- Allowing the dough to rise twice ensures a soft and airy cornbread.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use buttermilk instead of sour milk for a tangy flavor.

- Olive oil can be used instead of cooking oil for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

Proja s Slaninom can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Proja s Slaninom on a wooden board with a selection of cold cuts, cheeses, and fresh herbs for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Proja s Slaninom pairs well with a variety of dishes such as soups, stews, grilled meats, and salads.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Proja s Slaninom in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Proja s Slaninom contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Proja s Slaninom contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Proja s Slaninom contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Proja s Slaninom contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Proja s Slaninom is a good source of vitamin B12, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs, milk, and wheat which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Proja s Slaninom is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a meal or snack.

Summary

Proja s Slaninom is a delicious and savory cornbread dish that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with flavor from bacon and feta cheese, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy it warm with your favorite toppings or as a side dish to complement a meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a cold winter day, and my dear friend Milena invited me over to her house for a cozy afternoon of baking. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was enveloped in the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread.

Milena had a mischievous twinkle in her eye as she handed me a piece of the golden, savory bread she had just pulled out of the oven. "Try this," she said with a smile. "It's Proja s Slaninom, a traditional Serbian cornbread with bacon. You'll love it."

I took a bite and was instantly hooked. The cornbread was moist and flavorful, with crispy bits of bacon scattered throughout. The combination of sweet corn and salty bacon was a match made in heaven. I begged Milena for the recipe, and she happily obliged, explaining each step in detail as we baked together.

As I watched her expertly mix the ingredients and shape the dough, I couldn't help but marvel at her culinary skills. Milena was a master in the kitchen, effortlessly whipping up delicious meals and treats with the ease and confidence of someone who had been cooking for decades.

I asked her how she had learned to make Proja s Slaninom, and she chuckled, a twinkle of nostalgia in her eyes. "Oh, I learned this recipe from my own grandmother," she said. "She used to make it for me when I was a little girl, and I've been making it ever since. It's a family tradition."

I listened intently as Milena shared stories of her childhood, of long summer days spent in her grandmother's kitchen, watching in awe as she baked and cooked with love and care. Her grandmother had passed down not just recipes, but a deep appreciation for food and the joy it brought to those who shared it.

Inspired by Milena's tales, I decided to make Proja s Slaninom a regular part of my own cooking repertoire. I experimented with different variations, adding herbs and spices to suit my own taste. Each time I made it, the familiar scent of cornbread and bacon filled my kitchen, transporting me back to that unforgettable day with Milena.

As the years passed, Proja s Slaninom became a beloved staple in my household. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and cozy nights in with my husband. Each time, it was met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I happily shared it, passing on the tradition just as Milena had done for me.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, kneading the dough for Proja s Slaninom, I can't help but smile at the memories it brings back. The warmth of Milena's kitchen, the taste of that first bite, the stories of generations past—all of it woven together in a simple recipe that has become so much more than just bread.

I think of my own grandchildren, watching me now with curious eyes as I work my magic with flour and bacon. I hope that one day, they too will carry on the tradition, sharing this recipe with their own loved ones and creating new memories of their own.

As I take the golden loaf out of the oven and cut a slice for myself, I savor the familiar flavors and the joy they bring. Proja s Slaninom may just be a simple cornbread with bacon, but to me, it will always be a reminder of the power of food to connect us, to nourish us, and to bring us together in love and laughter. And for that, I am forever grateful.