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Delicious Fried Polenta Recipe – So Simple & Easy!

Polenta, a traditional Italian dish made from cornmeal, is a versatile and comforting ingredient that’s perfect for a variety of dishes. While it can be enjoyed in many forms, fried polenta brings a delightful crunch and rich flavour that elevates any meal. This simple recipe for delicious fried polenta is not only easy to prepare but also offers a wonderful canvas for your favourite toppings and sauces.

Ingredients

To make fried polenta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 200g cornmeal (polenta)
• 1 litre vegetable stock or water
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavour)
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for frying
• Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or basil) or spices (like paprika or chilli flakes), for seasoning (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Polenta

1. Bring to the Boil: In a large saucepan, bring the vegetable stock or water to a gentle boil. If you’re using water, don’t forget to add a pinch of salt for seasoning.

2. Whisk in Cornmeal: Gradually whisk in the cornmeal to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, which should take around 5-10 minutes.

3. Add Cheese: Once the polenta has thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

4. Spread the Polenta: Transfer the cooked polenta into a lightly greased tray or dish, spreading it evenly to a thickness of about 1.5cm (½ inch). Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until it is set.

Step 2: Cut and Fry

1. Slice the Polenta: Once the polenta has cooled and firmed up, cut it into chips, squares, or any shape you prefer.

2. Heat the Oil: In a large frying pan, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium heat. You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping in a small piece of polenta; it should sizzle upon contact.

3. Fry the Polenta: Carefully add the polenta pieces to the hot oil, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

4. Drain and Season: Once cooked, transfer the fried polenta to a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil. Season immediately with a sprinkle of salt and any additional herbs or spices you fancy.

Step 3: Serve

Fried polenta can be enjoyed in myriad ways. Serve it alongside a hearty salad, or drizzle with a rich tomato sauce or basil pesto for a delicious starter. Alternatively, they make a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. For a light snack, enjoy your fried polenta with a dollop of creamy sour cream or tangy aioli.

Conclusion

Fried polenta is an exceptional dish that combines simplicity with flavour, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create an impressive dish that is bound to impress your family and friends. So why not give this recipe a try? You might just find that fried polenta becomes a staple in your culinary repertoire!