Kajmak

Kajmak

Kajmak (KAI-mahk)

Clotted Cream Spread

Prep Time 3 days
📈 Difficulty Medium
👥 Servings
8
🔥 Calories 258 kcal

Rich, tangy Montenegrin clotted cream — layered, aged, and utterly addictive — the soul of Montenegrin dairy tradition.

Nutrition & Info

250 kcal per serving
Protein 4.0g
Carbs 2.0g
Fat 26.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian gluten-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ dairy

Equipment Needed

wide shallow pan skimmer ceramic crock

Presentation Guide

Vessel: small ceramic bowl

Garnishes: fresh herbs

Accompaniments: warm bread, grilled vegetables

Instructions

  1. 1

    Bring raw milk to a gentle simmer in a wide, shallow pan.

  2. 2

    As cream forms on the surface, carefully skim it off with a flat spoon.

  3. 3

    Layer the skimmed cream in a ceramic crock, sprinkling salt between layers.

  4. 4

    Repeat simmering and skimming until all cream is collected.

  5. 5

    Cover the crock and let age at cool room temperature 2-3 days.

  6. 6

    The finished kajmak should be creamy, slightly tangy, and rich.

💡

Did You Know?

Mountain kajmak aged for several weeks develops a pungent sharpness that Montenegrins prize, though it can surprise unprepared visitors.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • wide shallow pan
  • skimmer
  • ceramic crock

Garnishing

fresh herbs

Accompaniments

warm bread, grilled vegetables

The Story Behind Kajmak

Kajmak is the foundation of Montenegrin highland cuisine, predating the country itself. Mountain herders developed this preservation technique to store precious milk fat through winter. Fresh kajmak is mild and sweet; aged kajmak develops a complex tang. Both are considered essential to the Montenegrin table.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed any meal 📜 Origins: Medieval

Comments (0)

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!