Ukrainian Bukovinian Nachynka (Cornmeal Dressing) Recipe
🕒 Cook Time: 1 hour
🕒 Prep Time: 20 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
🍽️ Recipe Yield: 1 casserole
Description:
Indulge in the rich flavors of Ukrainian cuisine with this hearty Bukovinian Nachynka, a traditional cornmeal dressing that’s bound to tantalize your taste buds. Bursting with the savory goodness of bacon, caramelized onions, and creamy textures, this dish is a delightful addition to any mealtime spread. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to create this comforting delicacy!
Ingredients:
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon bacon drippings (alternatively, use additional butter)
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3 1/2 cups milk
- 3 eggs
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 2418
- Fat Content: 169.6g
- Saturated Fat Content: 81.4g
- Cholesterol Content: 1017.3mg
- Sodium Content: 4425.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 151.6g
- Fiber Content: 10g
- Sugar Content: 9.3g
- Protein Content: 76.9g
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by frying the bacon in a skillet until it becomes crisp and golden brown. |
| 2 | Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon and sauté until the onion turns translucent and caramelized. |
| 3 | Once the bacon and onion are cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet and set them aside momentarily. |
| 4 | In the same skillet, reserve about 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings (or substitute with additional butter if preferred). |
| 5 | Over low heat, gradually incorporate the cornmeal into the skillet, stirring gently to ensure it’s evenly coated with the bacon drippings or butter. |
| 6 | Season the cornmeal mixture with salt, pepper, and a touch of sugar, infusing it with layers of savory and sweet flavors. |
| 7 | In a separate saucepan, scald the milk until it’s heated through but not boiling. Gradually pour the scalded milk into the cornmeal mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring until the mixture becomes bubbly and thickens to the desired consistency. |
| 8 | Allow the mixture to simmer gently, further thickening and developing its rich, creamy texture. |
| 9 | Once the mixture has reached the desired thickness, remove it from the heat and proceed to add the eggs, one at a time, along with any remaining cream, bacon pieces, and sautéed onion. Gently fold these ingredients into the mixture until well combined. |
| 10 | Transfer the prepared mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. |
| 11 | Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the nachynka, uncovered, for approximately 1 hour, or until it’s golden brown and set in the center. |
| 12 | Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. |
| 13 | Serve the Bukovinian Nachynka warm as a comforting side dish alongside your favorite main courses, or enjoy it on its own as a satisfying meal. |
Notes:
- This Bukovinian Nachynka recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of meats, poultry, or vegetarian entrees.
- Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your preferences by adjusting the seasoning or adding additional ingredients such as herbs, cheese, or vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for longer-term storage. Simply reheat the nachynka in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Ukrainian cuisine with this classic Bukovinian Nachynka recipe, perfect for sharing with family and friends during cozy gatherings or special occasions. Enjoy every spoonful of this hearty and satisfying dish! 🌽🥓🍳
