Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1 onion, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 pound feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Cheese cloth or fine mesh strainer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, vinegar, vegetable oil, salt, paprika, oregano, thyme, and black peppercorns. Bring to a boil.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the pot. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add feta cheese to the pot and stir gently. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
5. Using a cheese cloth or fine mesh strainer, strain the saramură mixture to remove the vegetables and peppercorns.
6. Transfer the crumbled feta cheese to a serving dish and pour the saramură mixture over it.
7. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Low heat
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 250
Total fat: 20g
Saturated fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 1500mg
Total carbohydrates: 7g
Dietary fiber: 2g
Total sugars: 4g
Protein: 12g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- White vinegar can be substituted with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar.
- Vegetable oil can be substituted with olive oil or canola oil.
- Feta cheese can be substituted with goat cheese or queso fresco.
- Red and green bell peppers can be substituted with any other color bell pepper.
Variations:
- Add sliced tomatoes to the saramură mixture for a more colorful dish.
- Use crumbled blue cheese instead of feta cheese for a stronger flavor.
- Add sliced jalapeño peppers for a spicy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to strain the saramură mixture to remove the vegetables and peppercorns for a smooth texture.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- This dish can be served hot or cold.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover saramură with cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in a shallow bowl or on a platter with a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top.
Garnishes:
Chopped fresh herbs, sliced jalapeño peppers, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Pairings:
Crusty bread, olives, and a glass of red wine.
Suggested side dishes:
Grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the saramură mixture is too salty, add more water to dilute it.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the saramură mixture thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
Saramură is a traditional Romanian dish made with vinegar and spices. It is often served with fish, but this version with cheese is a popular vegetarian option.
Flavor profiles:
Tangy, salty, and savory.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or as a main dish with a side salad.
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Region: Romanian