Roasted Garlic & Toasted Walnut Banush (Vegetarian)

Roasted Garlic & Toasted Walnut Banush (Vegetarian)

Classic DishBanush

Prep: 15 min • Cook: 35 min. This vegetarian take on the classic Ukrainian banush features creamy cornmeal slow-cooked in tangy sour cream, elevated by the sweet and pungent notes of roasted garlic. It's finished with a delightful crisp texture from toasted walnuts and the fresh aroma of dill, making for a comforting and earthy meal.

Preparation time
15 min
Cooking time
35 min
Total time
50 min
Servings
4

Instructions

Preparation

  1. 1Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut off the top quarter of the garlic head, drizzle with a little olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 25-30 minutes until soft. Squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves and mash.
  2. 2Meanwhile, toast walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Let cool and then chop coarsely.

Cooking Banush

  1. 1In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine sour cream and water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  2. 2Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, a little at a time, to prevent lumps. Continue whisking until smooth.
  3. 3Reduce heat to low, add mashed roasted garlic and salt. Cook, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes, or until the banush thickens to a creamy porridge-like consistency and pulls away from the sides of the pot.
  4. 4Stir in the butter until fully incorporated.

Serving

  1. 1Ladle the hot banush into serving bowls.
  2. 2Garnish generously with toasted chopped walnuts and fresh dill before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories
450 kcal
Protein
13 g
Fat
28 g
Carbs
35 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories450 kcal
Protein13 g
Fat28 g
Carbs35 g

Tips

  • Stir constantly, especially when adding cornmeal, to avoid lumps and ensure even cooking.
  • Serve hot as a hearty breakfast, brunch, or a vegetarian main course.

By Chef Michael Ilin