Recipes

Banosh is a traditional Ukrainian dish from the Carpathian region, beloved for its simplicity and rich, comforting flavor. It’s made by slowly cooking cornmeal in cream or sour cream until smooth and creamy, often topped with bryndza cheese, crispy pork fat, or mushrooms. This rustic dish reflects the hearty mountain cuisine of Western Ukraine.

Cooking Time:
30 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fine cornmeal
• 2 cups sour cream
• 1 cup water
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup bryndza cheese (or feta)
• 4 oz smoked pork fat or bacon, diced
• 1 tbsp butter (optional)

Recipe:

1. In a pot, bring the sour cream and water to a gentle boil over low heat, stirring to combine.
2. Add the salt, then slowly pour in the cornmeal in a thin stream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy (about 15–20 minutes).
4. Meanwhile, fry the diced pork fat or bacon in a skillet until crispy.
5. Once the banosh is ready, spoon it onto plates. Top generously with crumbled bryndza and crispy pork fat. Add a little butter if desired.
6. Serve hot, optionally with sautéed mushrooms or extra cheese.