Crispy fried polenta is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with a satisfying crunch. To start, prepare the polenta by bringing water to a gentle boil and slowly whisking in the cornmeal, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and begins to pull away from the sides of the pan. After cooking for around 30 minutes, pour the creamy polenta into a lined tray and allow it to cool completely, ideally overnight in the fridge.

Once set, cut the polenta into lovely, bite-sized squares or sticks. For frying, heat a generous amount of oil in a deep pan until shimmering. Carefully add the polenta pieces, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, then transfer to a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil.

Serve your crispy fried polenta warm, perhaps drizzled with a fragrant herb oil or accompanied by a tangy dip. It’s the perfect starter or snack, with a satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with a variety of flavours. Enjoy!