Mamaliga

Significance

Why not celebrate Moldovan Independence Day by cooking the national food of Moldova? Mamaliga is made of corn meal and is usually paired with butter, sour cream, cheese, or any number of other sides. It is similar to Italian Polenta but has a much firmer consistency which allows it to be but into slices. Traditionally Mamaliga is prepared in a Ceaun (the Romanian word for a cast iron cauldron), but can easily be made in a regular pot or pan.

Preparation:

1) Bring the water to a boil and slowly add the corn meal.

2) Continuously stir until the mixture has started to thicken.

3) Turn down the heat to low and cook for about 45 minutes, stirring every once in a while to ensure that the mixture does not form clumps, and does not stick to the bottom of the pot.

4) Serve with cheese and sour cream or the side of your choice and enjoy!