Kaçamak me Shije
A hearty and rustic cornmeal porridge, often served with a flavorful addition of cheese and sometimes butter or yogurt. This version, 'me shije' (with flavor), incorporates local cheeses for a savory depth.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyEasy
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g Cornmeal(medium grind)
- 800 ml Water
- 1 tsp Salt
- 150 g White cheese(crumbled (e.g., feta or a mild local cheese))
- 50 g Butter(optional, for serving)
- 100 g Yogurt(plain, for serving (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring the water and salt to a rolling boil.
💡 Tip: Using a heavy-bottomed pot prevents scorching. - 2
Slowly whisk in the cornmeal in a steady stream, ensuring no lumps form.
💡 Tip: Whisking continuously is key to a smooth texture. - 3
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cornmeal is tender and has thickened.
💡 Tip: Stirring prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. - 4
Once the kaçamak has reached a thick, porridge-like consistency, stir in the crumbled white cheese until it's partially melted and distributed throughout.
💡 Tip: The cheese adds a salty, savory flavor and creamy texture. - 5
Serve hot, topped with a knob of butter and/or a dollop of plain yogurt, if desired.
💡 Tip: Kaçamak is best enjoyed immediately after preparation.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The consistency can be adjusted by adding more water if it becomes too thick.
- ✓Experiment with different types of local white cheeses for varied flavors.
- ✓Some variations include adding a bit of sour cream or milk towards the end of cooking for extra richness.
🔄 Variations
- Add fried onions or crispy bacon bits on top.
- Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Serve with a side of grilled or fried meat for a more substantial meal.