Traditional Polenta

πŸ•’ Prep: 5 min
πŸ”₯ Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Polenta is one of those classic Italian dishes that offers warmth and comfort in every bite. Simple yet satisfying, it's perfect for cozy nights when you want something hearty and delightful without too much fuss.

Ingredients for Traditional Polenta

Water is the base that helps transform cornmeal into a creamy delight. You need it hot and boiling to properly cook the cornmeal right from the start. Coarse yellow cornmeal is the star, giving the dish its signature texture and golden hue. Make sure to choose a coarse grind for authenticity. Salt enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness of the cornmeal. Unsalted butter adds a silky richness, while Parmesan cheese contributes a nutty, savory depth that complements the mild corn perfectly.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a sturdy whisk or a wooden spoon for stirring β€” it makes a difference.
  • If you notice lumps forming, a quick whisk can usually smooth them out.
  • For extra creaminess, you can substitute half of the water with milk.

Serving Suggestions

Polenta is wonderfully versatile. Serve it as a creamy base for savory stews or roasted meats. It also pairs beautifully with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of truffle oil for an elevated touch. You can even let it cool, then fry or grill slices for a crispy edge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make polenta ahead of time?
Yes! Cook it, let it cool, then reheat with a bit of water or broth to restore its creamy texture.
What if my polenta is too thick?
Simply add a bit more water or milk and stir until it reaches your desired consistency.
Is there a way to make it vegan?
Absolutely! Swap butter for olive oil and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Traditional Polenta Recipe Walkthrough

Start by bringing 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. This is important because you want the cornmeal to start cooking immediately. Once boiling, add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water β€” it’s crucial for flavor.

Now, reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the 1 cup of coarse yellow cornmeal. Whisking slowly is key to avoiding lumps. Trust me, you don’t want clumpy polenta! Once combined, keep stirring. This is where patience pays off, as you’ll need to continue stirring for about 30 minutes until the mixture thickens.

When the polenta reaches a creamy consistency, take the pot off the heat. Stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Keep mixing until both are fully melted and the polenta is smooth and glossy. Serve it up hot!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich, creamy texture that warms the soul.
  • Minimalist ingredient list β€” just five pantry staples!
  • Quick to prepare but feels like a special treat.
  • Versatile enough to pair with various mains or enjoy solo.

Ingredients

4 cups water
1 cup coarse yellow cornmeal
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the salt.
2. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, reducing heat to low.
3. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 30 minutes.
4. Off the heat, stir in butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

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