Mujdei

Mujdei is a zesty Romanian sauce that’s sure to elevate the flavor of any dish. It's crafted by crushing garlic cloves into a paste and then blending in vegetable oil, typically sunflower oil, and a pinch of salt. Depending on the region in Romania, you might encounter variations that include lemon juice or other ingredients to enhance the taste.

The consistency of mujdei can vary significantly. Sometimes it’s a thick paste; other times, it’s more liquid, but one thing remains constant: its robust garlic essence. In some parts of Romania, people even add cream to the mixture, creating a creamy, garlicky delight.

Mujdei is a popular accompaniment to a variety of dishes, especially fried fish, chicken, pork, boiled meats like rasol, and fried potatoes. The name "mujdei" originates from the phrase "must de ai" which is somewhat akin to the French "mousse d'ail" meaning 'garlic mousse.'

So next time you’re looking to add a little kick to your meal, try a dollop of mujdei!