Kachamak

Kachamak

Качамак (kah-CHA-mak)

Cornmeal Porridge with Cheese

Prep Time 5 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
4
🔥 Calories 345 kcal

A thick, comforting cornmeal porridge stirred with butter and topped with crumbled white cheese, a mountain shepherd's staple.

Nutrition & Info

340 kcal per serving
Protein 10.0g
Carbs 38.0g
Fat 17.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian gluten-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ dairy

Equipment Needed

heavy pot wooden spoon

Presentation Guide

Vessel: deep clay bowl

Garnishes: crumbled sirene, butter pat

Accompaniments: yogurt, pickled peppers

Instructions

  1. 1

    Bring salted water to a boil.

  2. 2

    Gradually whisk in cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.

  3. 3

    Reduce heat to low and cook 20-25 min, stirring frequently.

  4. 4

    Stir in butter until melted and incorporated.

  5. 5

    Serve topped with crumbled cheese and a dollop of yogurt.

💡

Did You Know?

Mountain shepherds in western Macedonia survived entire winters on kachamak, making it from just cornmeal, water, and whatever cheese they had.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • heavy pot
  • wooden spoon

Garnishing

crumbled sirene, butter pat

Accompaniments

yogurt, pickled peppers

The Story Behind Kachamak

Kachamak is the Macedonian cousin of Italian polenta, brought to the Balkans when corn arrived from the New World. It became the quintessential food of mountain communities, where its simplicity and warmth made it a survival staple.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed winter breakfast or lunch 📜 Origins: Pre-Ottoman

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