SIMPLE ROMANIAN GARLIC SAUCE (MUJDEI) – A BASIC KITCHEN CLASSIC
If this week has been all about simple recipes, what could be more basic and essential than the Romanian mujdei? This garlic sauce is perfect for grilled fish, cornmeal-fried fish, grilled vegetables, pork neck, or potato pies. For a spicier kick, add a roasted chili pepper when crushing the garlic. For a milder, more aromatic version, stir in a small roasted tomato. If you prefer a creamier, lighter mujdei, I also have a recipe with sour cream.
🕒 Prep Time: 5 min
🍽️ Yield: About 150 ml
🧄 Ingredients
- 1 head garlic (about 10 cloves)
- 1/2 tsp coarse salt
- 1/2 tsp sweet paprika
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil (sunflower or olive)
- 3-4 tbsp water
- Optional: chopped parsley or dill for garnish
- Optional: 1 roasted chili pepper
- Optional: 1 small roasted tomato
👩🍳 Instructions
- Smash the garlic cloves lightly with the flat side of a knife and peel them. Crush the garlic finely using a mortar and pestle or chop very finely with a knife.
- Place the garlic in the mortar with salt and grind until you get a smooth paste.
- Add the black pepper and sweet paprika, mixing well to combine.
- Slowly drizzle in the oil while stirring continuously with the pestle to create a creamy, orange-colored sauce.
- Dilute the sauce with water to your preferred taste and consistency, making it less intense and easier to drizzle or dip.
- Optional: stir in chopped parsley or dill for freshness. Add roasted chili or roasted tomato if desired for extra flavor and aroma.
💡 Tips
- Use a mortar and pestle for the most authentic texture and flavor.
- Adjust water to control the sauce thickness and pungency.
- Mujdei pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, and vegetables.
🎉 Perfect For
- Grilled fish and seafood
- Cornmeal-fried fish (pește în mălai)
- Grilled pork neck or other meats
- Potato pies and vegetable dishes
📝 Final Thoughts
This simple Romanian mujdei is a timeless sauce that elevates even the most basic dishes with its bold garlic flavor and silky texture. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s a staple that belongs in every kitchen, especially during grilling season.