Creier pane (Breaded pork brain) (Romanian)

One of the less known delicacies of the Romanian cuisine, this dish consists of delicate lobes of pork brain, cooked until just done (by boiling or steaming), then dipped in beaten egg and breadcrumbs and fried until crispy and golden. To many foreigners, it might sound unusual or plainly disgusting, but you don't know what you're missing, so give it a chance. If you manage to find pork brains at a meat store or in a delicacy shop, don't hesitate to get it - the dish is very easy to prepare at home. It would work also with calf brain, but pork is the staple.

Sometime in spring 2014, I was the field guide for two Norwegian researchers and we had a wonderful time doing some field research in villages around the Jiu county :). I remember my time with them in that research fondly. Well, since I was being one of the two guides, recommending food was also part of the ritual, and this dish was one of the most "adventurous" options I encouraged them to try from a local restaurant's menu. One of them built up the courage to try it and was pleasantly surprised. The thing most noticeable about it is the texture: the brain matter is so fine to the taste and its mouth-feel is so soft, it will compare to few things you've ever tasted. Give it a try. 

Last year: Kelewele (Spicy fried plantains) (Ghanaian).
Two years ago: Sfințișori moldovenești (Mucenici) (Moldavian/Romanian).
Three years ago: Simple coconut brownies.
Four years ago: Italian sunset (cocktail), Amaretto (almond liquor) cupcakes and Chicken and avocado salad.




Ingredients (serves 3-4):

• 400 g pork brain
• 2 eggs
• a salted vegetable seasoning mix, like Vegeta
• 30-40 g finely ground breadcrumbs, possibly more
• olive oil or sunflower oil for frying

Wash and drain the pork brain and separate it into larger pieces or lobes. (It will most likely separate by itself, since it's very delicate and soft). Boil it by steaming for 5-10 minutes or until done.

Beat the eggs in a bowl and add the vegetable seasoning mix. Prepare the breadcrumbs.

Heat the oil in a large pan, dip each brain piece in the egg and then the breadcrumbs and put it in the pan. Repeat for the next piece and so on. 

Fry them for 2-3 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon or palette and transfer to serving plates. It's done, dig in while it's warm!

Note: This is a dish meant to be served with bread and possibly a dipping sauce of your choice. Choose something a bit sour or tangy to counterbalance the richness of the breaded brain.