Moldovan cuisine is a hidden gem in Eastern Europe, blending flavors from Romanian, Ukrainian, Russian, and Turkish influences.
It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance.
If you’re a foodie looking to explore something new, you’re in for a treat.
These Moldovan recipes are not just delicious—they’re a cultural experience waiting to happen.
Ready to dive into a world of savory pies, creamy soups, and mouthwatering stews? Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to spice up your weekly menu, these recipes are a must-try.
From the iconic mămăligă to the irresistible plăcintă, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get cooking!
1. Mămăligă (Moldovan Polenta)
Mămăligă is the ultimate comfort food in Moldova. Think of it as their version of polenta, but with a rustic twist.
It’s creamy, hearty, and pairs perfectly with almost anything.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cornmeal
- 4 cups water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp butter (optional)
How to make it:
Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Add salt and slowly whisk in the cornmeal.
Reduce the heat to low and stir continuously for about 15-20 minutes until it thickens.
If you like it extra creamy, stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end. Serve it warm with cheese, sour cream, or a hearty stew.
Why we chose it:
Mămăligă is a staple in Moldovan households. It’s simple, versatile, and downright delicious. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a great option for everyone.
2. Plăcintă (Moldovan Stuffed Pastry)
Plăcintă is Moldova’s answer to the perfect handheld snack.
This flaky, stuffed pastry comes with various fillings, but the cheese version is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup oil
- 1 cup feta cheese (or a mix of cheeses)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
How to make it:
Mix flour, water, and oil to form a dough. Roll it out thinly and cut into squares.
Place a spoonful of cheese in the center, fold the dough over, and seal the edges.
Brush with egg wash and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Why this made it to our list:
Plăcintă is the ultimate comfort snack. It’s crispy, cheesy, and perfect for any time of day.
3. Zeamă (Moldovan Chicken Soup)
Zeamă is a tangy, flavorful chicken soup that’s a staple in Moldovan cuisine. It’s light yet satisfying, with a hint of lemon for that extra zing.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces)
- 2 carrots (sliced)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- 1/2 cup rice
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to make it:
Boil the chicken in a large pot of water for about 30 minutes. Add carrots, onion, and bell pepper, and simmer for another 15 minutes.
Stir in the rice and cook until tender. Finish with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Why we selected it:
Zeamă is the perfect pick-me-up soup. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavor.
4. Sarmale (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)
Sarmale is a beloved dish in Moldova, featuring cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory mix of rice, vegetables, and spices.
Ingredients:
- 1 large cabbage head
- 1 cup rice
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 carrots (grated)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to make it:
Blanch the cabbage leaves to soften them. Mix rice, onion, carrots, and spices.
Place a spoonful of the mixture on each leaf, roll tightly, and place in a pot. Pour tomato sauce over the rolls, cover, and simmer for 1-2 hours.
Why this made it to our list:
Sarmale is a labor of love, but every bite is worth it. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy dinner.
5. Chiftele (Moldovan Meatballs)
Chiftele are juicy, flavorful meatballs that are a hit at any table. They’re often served with mashed potatoes or mămăligă.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or chicken
- 1 onion (grated)
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
How to make it:
Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Shape into small balls and fry in hot oil until golden brown. Serve with your favorite side.
Why we chose it:
Chiftele are simple, delicious, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
6. Ardei Umpluți (Stuffed Bell Peppers)
These stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and tasty addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 6 bell peppers
- 1 cup rice
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1 carrot (grated)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to make it:
Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds. Mix rice, onion, carrot, and spices.
Stuff the peppers, place them in a pot, and pour tomato sauce over them. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes.
Why this made it to our list:
Ardei umpluți are vibrant, flavorful, and a great way to sneak in some veggies.
7. Tocăniță (Moldovan Stew)
Tocăniță is a rich, hearty stew that’s perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef (cubed)
- 2 onions (chopped)
- 2 carrots (sliced)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to make it:
Brown the beef in a pot. Add onions, carrots, and bell pepper, and cook until softened.
Stir in tomato sauce, paprika, and spices. Simmer for 1-2 hours until the meat is tender.
Why we selected it:
Tocăniță is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, hearty, and perfect for a cozy night in.
8. Colțunași (Moldovan Dumplings)
Colțunași are soft, pillowy dumplings filled with cheese or potatoes.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 egg
- 1 cup mashed potatoes or cheese
- Salt to taste
How to make it:
Mix flour, water, and egg to form a dough. Roll it out and cut into circles.
Place a spoonful of filling in the center, fold over, and seal. Boil in salted water until they float to the top.
Why this made it to our list:
Colțunași are simple, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying.
9. Salată de Vinete (Eggplant Salad)
This creamy eggplant salad is a must-try for veggie lovers.
Ingredients:
- 2 eggplants
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1/4 cup oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to make it:
Roast the eggplants until soft. Peel and mash them. Mix with onion, oil, and spices. Serve chilled.
Why we chose it:
Salată de vinete is light, creamy, and perfect for a summer snack.
10. Brânză (Moldovan Cheese)
Brânză is a traditional Moldovan cheese that’s salty, tangy, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 gallon milk
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- Salt to taste
How to make it:
Heat milk until warm. Add vinegar and stir until curds form. Strain and press the curds to form cheese. Salt to taste.
Why this made it to our list:
Brânză is a versatile cheese that adds a punch of flavor to any dish.
11. Cornulețe (Moldovan Cookies)
These crescent-shaped cookies are sweet, buttery, and perfect with a cup of tea.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to make it:
Mix all ingredients to form a dough. Roll out, cut into triangles, and shape into crescents. Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Why we selected it:
Cornulețe are a sweet treat that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.
Conclusion
Moldovan cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be explored.
From hearty stews to flaky pastries, these recipes are sure to impress.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, pick a recipe, and start cooking.