Ciulama de Ciuperci cu Mămăligă
A creamy and savory mushroom stew (ciulama) served with traditional Moldovan mămăligă (cornmeal porridge). This dish is a staple in Moldovan homes, offering a comforting and hearty meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Mushrooms(mixed varieties like cremini, button, or porcini, sliced)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 50 g Butter
- 3 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 200 ml Sour cream
- 100 ml Milk(or chicken broth)
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill(chopped)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- For Mămăligă:
- 200 g Cornmeal
- 800 ml Water
- 0.5 tsp Salt
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
For the ciulama: Melt butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 2
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 10-12 minutes.
💡 Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan; cook mushrooms in batches if necessary for better browning. - 3
Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and onions. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
- 4
Gradually whisk in the milk (or broth) and sour cream until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.
💡 Tip: Whisking continuously prevents lumps from forming. - 5
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir in most of the chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
- 6
For the mămăligă: In a separate saucepan, bring the water and salt to a boil.
💡 Tip: Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent scorching. - 7
Slowly whisk in the cornmeal in a steady stream to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, until the mămăligă is thick and smooth, about 20-25 minutes.
💡 Tip: The consistency should be like thick porridge; add more water if it becomes too stiff. - 8
Serve the hot ciulama de ciuperci over a generous portion of mămăligă. Garnish with the remaining fresh dill.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use a mix of fresh and dried mushrooms (rehydrate dried mushrooms before using).
- ✓A splash of white wine can be added with the milk for extra depth of flavor.
- ✓Mămăligă can be served with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of brânză (Moldovan cheese).
🔄 Variations
- Add a small amount of cooked chicken or pork to the ciulama.
- Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle warmth.
- Serve with pickled vegetables on the side.