Serbian Proja — Traditional Balkan Cornbread

Proja is one of the most characteristic breads of the Balkans, born in traditional Serbian cuisine. Simple in ingredients and economical to prepare, it has for decades been a faithful companion of dishes on the region’s tables, from a warm breakfast to a family lunch.

INGREDIENTS (for one baking pan, 8–10 servings):

• 300 g corn flour
• 100 g wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet (10 g) baking powder
• 3 eggs
• 250 ml yogurt
• 100 ml oil (or 100 g melted butter)
• 200 g crumbled white cheese
• 100 ml sparkling water (for fluffiness)
• oil for greasing the pan

PREPARATION STEPS:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C and grease a medium baking pan (about 30×20 cm) with oil.
2. In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients: corn flour, wheat flour, salt and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs with the yogurt, oil (or melted butter) and sparkling water.
4. Pour the liquid over the dry ingredients and stir until a smooth, lump-free batter forms.
5. Add the crumbled cheese and stir gently.
6. Pour the batter into the pan, level the surface and bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let it cool for 10 minutes, cut into squares and serve warm — it goes wonderfully with yogurt, ajvar or white cheese.

Prep time: 15 minutes. Baking time: 30–35 minutes. Servings: 8–10.