Cornmeal porridge

Ciulama de teci – a rustic dish, full of flavor and childhood memories, that combines the fresh taste of summer with the comfort of a warm meal. This simple yet characterful recipe will take you on a nostalgic culinary journey, transforming simple ingredients into something truly special. The dish is perfect for cool days but can be enjoyed anytime you crave a comforting meal.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 dried onion (finely chopped)
- 1 bunch of green onions (finely chopped)
- 10-15 green bean pods (cut into pieces about 3-4 cm long)
- A few sprigs of fresh herbs (parsley and dill, finely chopped)
- 4 heaping tablespoons of flour (about 1 tablespoon/serving)
- 1 liter of milk
- 1-2 tablespoons of oil (for sautéing)
- A pinch of salt

Preparation:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by chopping the dried onion, green onions, and fresh herbs. Make sure the green bean pods are well cleaned and cut into equal-sized pieces for even cooking. These fresh ingredients will add a vibrant flavor to your ciulama.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, add a tablespoon of oil and a pinch of salt. Heat the oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the dried onion, green onions, and green bean pods. Sauté them for a minute, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. This step will release the flavors of the vegetables and create a delicious base for the ciulama.

3. Steam the vegetables: After the vegetables have taken on a light golden color, add a cup of water and cover the pot with a lid. Let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes. Check occasionally and add water if necessary. The green beans should become tender but not fully cooked.

4. Heat the milk: In a separate pot, bring the milk to a boil. This step is essential, as warm milk will integrate better into your sauce, preventing lumps. Once the milk starts to boil, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

5. Add the flour: After the green beans are cooked, add 4 heaping tablespoons of flour to the pot with the vegetables. Mix well to incorporate the flour and create a smooth sauce. Now, it's time to add the milk. Use a ladle to gradually pour in the milk while continuously stirring. This will help prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture for the ciulama.

6. Cook everything: Continue to stir until the mixture starts to boil. At this point, your ciulama is ready. Taste and adjust the salt as desired. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add a little extra water or milk.

Serving: Ciulama de teci is served warm, alongside a generous portion of polenta. The polenta provides a pleasant contrast of textures and helps absorb the delicious sauce.

Personal notes: This recipe can vary based on your preferences. You can add, for example, some pieces of chicken or pork for a heartier dish. You can also experiment with different types of herbs depending on the season and availability.

Nutritional benefits: This ciulama is a good source of fiber due to the green bean pods, while the milk provides calcium and protein. The herbs add essential vitamins that contribute to overall health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of beans? Absolutely! Green beans can be replaced with other seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots.
- How can I store the ciulama? It is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat over low heat, adding a little water or milk if necessary.
- What other dishes can it be paired with? Ciulama de teci pairs wonderfully with roasts or fresh salads. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a cold lemonade can perfectly complement the meal.

Now that you have all the details, you're ready to impress your family or friends with a delicious ciulama de teci. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: a few sprigs of greenery (parsley and dill); 10-15 green bean pods; 1 dried onion; 1 bunch of green onions; 4 heaping tablespoons of flour (1 tablespoon per serving); 1 liter of milk.