Description
Polenta is a classic Italian dish made from coarsely ground yellow cornmeal. It can be cooked to a creamy texture or sliced and grilled, fried, or baked. Versatile and comforting, polenta is a staple in Italian cuisine.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Polenta:
- Water or chicken stock
- Stone-ground dried yellow corn kernels
- Salt
- Butter
- Pepper
- (Optional) Grated Parmesan cheese
For Polenta Fries:
- 1 cup cooked polenta
- 1–2 tablespoons oil (such as olive or avocado oil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Air fryer or oven
- Optional: Dipping sauce of your choice
Instructions
For the Polenta:
- Step 1 – Bring water or chicken stock to a rapid boil in your chosen pot.
- Step 2 – Take your polenta and slowly whisk it into the boiling liquid, adding salt to taste.
- Step 3 – Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently.
- Step 4 – Stir the polenta occasionally to prevent lumps from forming and to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
- Step 5 – The cooking process usually takes around 40 minutes, but be sure to check the package instructions for specific cooking times.
- Step 6 – Towards the end of the cooking time, add butter, salt, and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Step 7 – (Optional) For some extra flavor, you can also stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
For Polenta Fries:
- Step 1 – Allow the cooked polenta to cool and set. Slice it into uniform strips resembling large french fries.
- Step 2 – Lightly brush or spray the polenta slices with oil to coat them evenly.
- Step 3 – Sprinkle the polenta slices with salt and pepper to add flavor.
- Step 4 – Cook the polenta fries in an air fryer or oven according to the equipment’s instructions until crispy and golden brown.
- Step 5 – Serve the polenta fries hot or at room temperature with your favorite dipping sauce.
