Polenta #1

This classic Italian polenta is a study in simple comfort. Made with just yellow cornmeal, water, salt, and generous amounts of butter and Parmesan cheese, it transforms into a creamy, golden dish with a subtle sweetness and rich mouthfeel. The key to success is patience; stirring constantly ensures a smooth texture without lumps. It serves beautifully as a hearty side dish for roasted meats or stews, but also stands alone as a vegetarian main when topped with extra cheese and herbs. The addition of melted butter and grated Parmesan at the end elevates the humble cornmeal into a luxurious, restaurant-quality experience that warms the soul on chilly evenings.

Cooking Method: Boiling, Sautéing

Cuisine: Italian

Courses: Side Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 6

Calories: 615.4

Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegetarian

Description

This classic Italian polenta is a study in simple comfort. Made with just yellow cornmeal, water, salt, and generous amounts of butter and Parmesan cheese, it transforms into a creamy, golden dish with a subtle sweetness and rich mouthfeel. The key to success is patience; stirring constantly ensures a smooth texture without lumps. It serves beautifully as a hearty side dish for roasted meats or stews, but also stands alone as a vegetarian main when topped with extra cheese and herbs. The addition of melted butter and grated Parmesan at the end elevates the humble cornmeal into a luxurious, restaurant-quality experience that warms the soul on chilly evenings.

Ingredients

1 cup Yellow cornmeal
1 cup cold water
1 teaspoon Salt
4 cup boiling water
2 tablespoon Butter
1/2 cup Butter, melted
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

1
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, cold water, and salt until well combined.
2
Bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
3
Slowly pour the cornmeal mixture into the boiling water, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon to prevent lumps.
4
Reduce heat to low and continue stirring frequently for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the polenta is thick, creamy, and the cornmeal is fully cooked.
5
Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and incorporated.
6
Spoon the hot polenta into serving dishes.
7
Drizzle each serving with the remaining melted butter and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
8
Serve immediately while hot.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 615.4kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 41.5g64%
Saturated Fat 25.1g126%
Cholesterol 107.0mg36%
Sodium 5588.6mg233%
Total Carbohydrate 46.3g16%
Dietary Fiber 4.4g18%
Sugars 1.7g
Protein 15.7g32%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: polenta, cornmeal, italian, side dish, vegetarian, comfort food, parmesan, butter, creamy, porridge, grain, homestyle, easy, dinner, starch, classic, simple, warm, soft

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/polenta-1/