Discover the delicious recipe for Bulz, a traditional dish featuring mămăligă (cornmeal porridge) mixed with cheese and baked to perfection. This savory Romanian dish is perfect for a comforting meal. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this cheesy, baked delight.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup cornmeal

- 4 cups water

- 1 cup grated cheese (such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a Romanian cheese like telemea)

- 2 tablespoons butter

- Salt to taste

- Black pepper to taste

- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits or sausage for added flavor

Instructions:

Prepare the Mămăligă:

  - In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt.

  - Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.

  - Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for about 15-20 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pot.

Mix in Cheese and Butter:

  - Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the butter until melted and well incorporated.

  - Fold in the grated cheese until evenly distributed. If you’re using bacon or sausage, mix it in now.

Bake the Bulz:

  - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  - Transfer the cheesy mămăligă mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.

  - Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Serve:

  - Allow the Bulz to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm as a hearty side dish or main course.

Enjoy your homemade Bulz, a comforting and flavorful Romanian classic!

Nutritional Values

Cornmeal

- Calories: 140

- Carbohydrates: 30g

- Protein: 3g

- Fat: 1g

- Fiber: 2g

- Vitamins & Minerals: High in B vitamins, iron, and magnesium.

Benefits:

- Cornmeal is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy.

- It contains dietary fiber that aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation.

- It provides essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, which are crucial for metabolism and red blood cell production.

Grated Cheese (e.g., Cheddar or Mozzarella)

- Calories: 110

- Carbohydrates: 1g

- Protein: 7g

- Fat: 9g

- Calcium: 200mg (20% DV)

Benefits:

- Cheese is a good source of high-quality protein, important for muscle repair and growth.

- It provides a significant amount of calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth.

- Contains beneficial fats, including some that support brain health.

Butter

- Calories: 100

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 11g

- Saturated Fat: 7g

Benefits:

- Adds richness and flavor to dishes.

- Provides fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K.

- A source of fat that provides energy and helps in the absorption of certain nutrients.

Salt

- Sodium: ~575mg (25% DV)

Benefits:

- Essential for maintaining fluid balance and proper muscle and nerve function.

- Enhances the flavor of foods, which can make meals more enjoyable.

Black Pepper

- Calories: 6

- Carbohydrates: 1.6g

- Protein: 0.2g

- Fat: 0.1g

Benefits:

- May help stimulate digestion and increase the absorption of nutrients.

- Contains piperine, which has antioxidant properties and may support overall health.

- May help reduce inflammation and improve circulation.

Optional: Cooked Bacon Bits or Sausage

Cooked Bacon Bits

- Calories: 100

- Carbohydrates: 0g

- Protein: 8g

- Fat: 7g

- Sodium: 400mg

Benefits:

- Adds a savory, smoky flavor to dishes.

- Provides additional protein content.

- Helps make the dish more filling.

This combination of ingredients not only adds flavor and texture but also offers a range of nutrients beneficial for overall health.