Homemade Cornmeal Banitsa with Cheese – An Easy Cornmeal Recipe

Cornmeal *banitsa* is a delicious and aromatic homemade dish made with cornmeal and white cheese. It turns out golden, slightly crispy on the outside, and soft and moist on the inside. The recipe is easy and suitable for both breakfast and an afternoon snack.

Ingredients

2 cups cornmeal
1 cup white flour
250 g white cheese (sirene)
3 eggs
400 g yogurt
100 ml vegetable oil or melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
100–150 ml water (if needed)

Instructions

In a large bowl, beat the eggs and add the yogurt. Stir in the baking soda and mix well. 
Crumble the cheese and add it to the mixture. 
Gradually add the cornmeal and white flour. Mix until you have a thick, but not overly dry, batter. 
If the mixture is too thick, add a little water. 
Grease a suitable baking pan with some of the fat and pour in the mixture. 
Spread it evenly and drizzle the remaining fat over the top. 
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 35–40 minutes, until the *banitsa* turns a delicious golden color. 
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tip for a tastier cornmeal *banitsa*

For an even richer flavor, you can replace some of the vegetable oil with melted butter. If you prefer a moister *banitsa*, add another 2–3 tablespoons of yogurt to the mixture.

How should the corn *banitsa* be served?

Homemade corn *banitsa* is delicious whether served warm or cooled. Serve it with yogurt, *ayran*, or fresh vegetables. It is suitable for breakfast but can also be served as a light main course.

Why use corn flour?

Corn flour has a distinctive, slightly sweet taste and gives baked goods a pleasant golden crust. It can be used in various recipes—for *banitsa*, small flatbreads, loaves, *kachamak* (polenta), and other homemade dishes.