Polenta with cheese and ham

Polenta with cheese and ham - A traditional Romanian recipe full of flavor

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Polenta with cheese and ham is a classic Romanian dish, perfect for enjoying both at breakfast and as a side dish or main course. This simple and quick recipe will delight you with its intense flavors and creamy texture. Let's get started!

Ingredients:
- 300 g cornmeal
- 1 liter water
- 200 g salty cheese (like burduf or telemea)
- 100 g smoked ham (or bacon)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional, to taste)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by preparing all the ingredients. Grate the cheese using a fine grater; it will melt and give a special flavor to the polenta. If you prefer a stronger taste, you can use smoked cheese. Cut the smoked ham into thin strips or cubes, depending on your preference.

Step 2: Boiling the water
In a large pot, bring 1 liter of water to a boil. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt, but be careful not to overdo it, as the cheese and ham are already salty.

Step 3: Preparing the polenta
When the water starts to boil, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly with a whisk or a wooden spoon to avoid lumps. Continue stirring for about 15-20 minutes, until the polenta becomes soft and creamy. If you prefer a softer consistency, you can add a little more water.

Step 4: Frying the ham
In a separate pan, add the strips of smoked ham. Fry them over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until they become golden and crispy. This will add extra flavor to your polenta.

Step 5: Assembling the dish
On a plate, place a generous layer of warm polenta. On top, add the grated cheese, letting it melt slightly. Then, add the fried ham for a crunchy contrast. You can repeat the layers to create a richer dish.

Step 6: Serving
Serve the polenta with cheese and ham immediately, warm, to enjoy all the flavors. You can accompany it with a tomato and onion salad or pickles, which will add a refreshing contrast.

Variation suggestions:
- Replace the smoked ham with bacon for a stronger taste.
- Add a fried egg on top for an extra protein boost and delicious texture.
- You can experiment by adding herbs like dill or parsley to the polenta for a fresh flavor.

This polenta with cheese and ham is a perfect example of Romanian comfort food, ideal for chilly days or to bring a touch of tradition to your meals. Enjoy every bite and savor the authentic taste!