Ukrainian Cornmeal Delight (Bukovinian Nachynka)
Experience the rich culinary tradition of Bukovina with this Ukrainian Cornmeal Delight (Nachynka). This savory cornbread dressing is a beloved dish that hails from the rich history of Ukrainian cuisine. Perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts, this recipe combines tender onions sautéed in butter, wholesome cornmeal, and the comforting flavors of milk, cream, and spices. The result is a beautifully baked dish with a crispy golden crust and a soft, flavorful interior. Share this delightful dish with friends and family for a taste of Ukrainian heritage.
N/A
Servings
125
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
onion
1 (chopped fine)
butter
3 tablespoons (melted)
cornmeal
1 cup (dry)
salt
1 teaspoon (to taste)
sugar
1 teaspoon (optional)
pepper
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon (optional)
scalded milk
3 1/2 cups (heated until just boiling)
light cream
1/2 cup (added in)
eggs
2-3 (well beaten)
Instructions
1
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is tender and translucent, but not browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2
Stir in the cornmeal, salt, sugar, pepper, and cinnamon (if using). Mix thoroughly to coat the cornmeal with the buttery onion mixture, letting the flavors meld for another 2 minutes.
3
Gradually pour in the scalded milk while continuously stirring to ensure the mixture remains smooth and free of lumps.
4
Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens, about 5-10 minutes.
5
Once thickened, remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in the light cream until well combined.
6
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well blended. Slowly incorporate the beaten eggs into the cornmeal mixture, ensuring an even mixture.
7
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a 2-quart casserole dish.
8
Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
9
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the top is a crisp golden brown and the edges are slightly pulling away from the sides of the dish.
10
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Nutrition Information
6.25g
Fat
15g
Carbs
2.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ukrainian Cornmeal Delight (Bukovinian Nachynka)?
It is a savory Ukrainian cornmeal dressing originating from the Bukovina region, known for its soft interior and crispy golden crust.
What is the origin of this dish?
This recipe comes from the rich culinary history of the Bukovina region in Ukraine.
Is Bukovinian Nachynka vegetarian?
Yes, based on the ingredient list and tags, this recipe is classified as vegetarian.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are 125 calories per serving of this cornmeal dish.
What are the nutritional facts for fat and protein?
Each serving contains 6.25g of fat and 2.5g of protein.
How many carbohydrates does it contain?
There are 15g of carbohydrates per serving.
What size casserole dish is needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires a 2-quart casserole dish that should be generously buttered.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking.
How long does the baking process take?
The dish should be baked uncovered for approximately 1 hour.
How do I prepare the onions for this recipe?
Finely chop one onion and sauté it in butter for 5-7 minutes until tender and translucent.
What type of cornmeal is used?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of dry cornmeal.
How much milk is required and how should it be prepared?
You need 3 1/2 cups of milk, which should be scalded (heated until just boiling) before being added to the mixture.
Are there any optional ingredients?
Yes, sugar (1 teaspoon) and cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon) are listed as optional ingredients.
How many eggs are used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 to 3 well-beaten eggs.
When should the light cream be added?
Gently fold in 1/2 cup of light cream after the cornmeal mixture has thickened and been removed from the heat.
What is the texture of the finished Bukovinian Nachynka?
It has a beautifully baked crispy golden crust with a soft, flavorful interior.
What spices are used for seasoning?
The dish is seasoned with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and an optional 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon.
How do I ensure the cornmeal mixture is smooth?
Gradually pour in the scalded milk while continuously stirring to prevent any lumps from forming.
How long should the mixture cook on the stove?
Stir and cook the mixture over medium heat for 5-10 minutes until it thickens.
How do I know when the Nachynka is finished baking?
It is done when the top is a crisp golden brown and the edges are slightly pulling away from the sides of the dish.
Should the dish be covered while baking?
No, it should be baked uncovered to achieve a crispy top.
Is this dish suitable for holidays?
Yes, it is tagged as a holiday dish and is perfect for family gatherings or festive feasts.
Can I serve this dish immediately after baking?
It is recommended to allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving warm.
What amount of butter is needed?
The recipe requires 3 tablespoons of melted butter.
How do I incorporate the eggs?
Beat the eggs until well blended and then slowly incorporate them into the cornmeal mixture to ensure an even distribution.
What are common tags for this recipe?
Common tags include Ukrainian, cornbread, dressing, sides, vegetarian, and comfort food.
Is this a savory or sweet dish?
It is primarily a savory cornbread dressing, though it contains a small optional amount of sugar and cinnamon.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 total ingredients used in this recipe.
How do I prepare the casserole dish?
The 2-quart casserole dish should be generously buttered before transferring the mixture into it.
Can this be used as a side dish?
Yes, it is traditionally served as a savory side dish or dressing.