Polenta

N/A (Processed Food, Ground Corn) Grain Product/Side

Polenta Grain Product/Side

At a Glance

  • Category Grain Product/Side

The Forktionary Angle

"The ultimate comfort food that transforms simple cornmeal into a rich, adaptable foundation for countless savory dishes."

Definition

A dish made from boiled cornmeal, serving as a versatile side or base, ranging from creamy to firm, often found in Italian cuisine.

Carbohydrate Composition Complex carbohydrates
Cooked Shelf Life 3-5 days (refrigerated)
Versatility as a Base Can be creamy, firm, fried

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Polenta are:

Mild earthy slightly sweet (depending on type)

Chef’s Secret

For truly creamy polenta, add cold water or broth to the cornmeal slowly, whisking constantly, and cook over low heat for an extended period, stirring frequently.

Best Substitutes

Grits

similar texture
Ratio 1:1

Mashed potatoes

different flavor
Ratio 1:1

Couscous

different texture
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose stone-ground polenta for superior texture and flavor over instant versions.

Recipes Using Polenta

High In Something Equipment Meat Poultry

Baked Cheesy Chicken Nuggets No Bread Coating

Craving crispy, cheesy chicken nuggets without the gluten? This recipe is a game-changer! We're ditching the breading and using a simple, flavorful polenta and parmesan crust for irresistibly delicious, gluten-free nuggets. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these bake up golden brown and cheesy in just 30 minutes. Customize them with your favorite herbs and spices for an extra flavor boost!

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Dietary Low Carb 4 Hours Or Less Time To Make

Baked Stuffed Polenta Polenta Al Forno

This stunning Italian main dish from the Australian Women's Weekly cookbook elevates polenta to new heights! Layers of creamy polenta, savory salami (or prosciutto!), sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and melted cheeses create a visually captivating and incredibly flavorful bake. Perfect for impressing guests, this recipe is surprisingly manageable with a little prep ahead. Serve with a fresh Italian salad and garlic bread for a complete and unforgettable meal. Serves 6-8.

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Low In Something Preparation Low In Something Vegetables

Baked Eggplant And Ricotta Rolls

Deliciously decadent Baked Eggplant and Ricotta Rolls! Inspired by a Good Taste magazine cover, this recipe is surprisingly easy and fun to make. Impress your guests with this elegant vegetarian dish featuring tender eggplant rolls filled with creamy ricotta, fragrant basil, and melted mozzarella. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Serve with creamy polenta for a complete and satisfying meal.

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Healthy Preparation Main Dish Equipment

Beef And Eggplant Bake With Polenta Crust

This hearty Beef and Eggplant Bake, topped with a creamy polenta crust and baked to golden perfection, is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings. The rich beef ragu, layered with tender eggplant and fragrant herbs, is perfectly complemented by the cheesy polenta topping. Serve with a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. #beefrecipe #eggplantrecipe #polenta #comfortfood #winterrecipe #bakedrecipe #easyrecipe

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Occasion Grains Dietary Granola And Porridge

Addicted To Porridge

Say goodbye to boring breakfast! This decadent Addicted To Porridge recipe is the perfect way to start your day with a burst of flavor and energy. Creamy, dreamy, and packed with delicious ingredients, this isn't your grandma's oatmeal. So good, you'll be hooked! Easily customizable – try it with bananas for a dessert-like twist!

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Healthy 2 Time To Make Low Protein Low Calorie

Baked Polenta With A Tomato Sauce

This hearty and flavorful baked polenta, topped with a vibrant tomato sauce and melted cheese, is a satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Whether served as a main course or a stunning side dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Each serving is approximately 16.5 Weight Watchers points (using low-fat cheese). Prepare to be amazed by the creamy polenta and tangy tomato sauce combination!

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Preparation Course Condiments Etc Preparation

A 1 Slow Roasted Shredded Steak With Polenta A1

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this A1 Slow Roasted Shredded Steak recipe! Tender steak, slow-cooked in a rich and savory gravy made with A1 Original Steak Sauce and sweet boysenberry jam, is served over a bed of creamy, cheesy polenta. This recipe is a flavor explosion, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Beginner Cook Beginner Cook Cuisine Low In Something

Baked Polenta Fries

Crispy, golden-baked polenta fries that are surprisingly easy to make! Inspired by Martha Stewart, this recipe is perfect for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a satisfying side dish. Get ready for rave reviews!

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European Time To Make Cuisine Preparation

Baked Stuffed Polenta Reduced And Lightened

This lightened-up take on classic baked stuffed polenta is surprisingly easy and delivers incredible flavor! While it requires a little overnight chill time, the result is well worth the wait. Imagine creamy polenta layered with savory salami, sun-dried tomatoes, and peppers, then baked to perfection. Serve alongside a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

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60 Minutes Or Less Comfort Food Main Ingredient Mushrooms

Baked Polenta With Mushrooms And Gorgonzola

Indulge in this creamy and decadent Baked Polenta recipe! Featuring earthy sautéed mushrooms and pungent Gorgonzola cheese, this comforting dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Inspired by Real Simple Magazine (November 2006), this updated recipe offers a gourmet twist on a classic. Enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavors – a true taste of Italian comfort food!

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Course Crock Pot Slow Cooker Preparation Main Ingredient

Beans Greens And Sausage Crock Pot

Comfort food at its finest! This hearty Beans, Greens, and Sausage Crock-Pot recipe is perfect for chilly evenings or a quick weeknight meal. Tender greens, savory sausage, and creamy polenta create a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Easy to make and even easier to clean up – get ready for a delicious and satisfying experience!

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Vegetarian Pasta Rice And Grains For 1 Or 2 Main Ingredient

Baked Polenta Carrot Casserole

Hop into spring with this delightful Baked Polenta Carrot Casserole! A moist and flavorful casserole bursting with vitamins, this recipe is a tasty twist on traditional carrot dishes. Easy and quick to prepare, it's the perfect side dish for Easter or any spring gathering. Creamy polenta, tender sauteed carrots, and a sprinkle of cheese make this a crowd-pleaser.

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North American Pasta Rice And Grains Cuisine Main Ingredient

Beef Ragout On Polenta

Indulge in this hearty and flavorful Beef Ragout, simmered to perfection in a slow cooker and served over a bed of creamy polenta. Inspired by a classic recipe, this comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening. For a twist, try serving it with split corn muffins or cornbread wedges as a delicious alternative to polenta! (Adapted from a 2003 Pillsbury recipe).

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Number Of Servings Appetizers Condiments Etc Preparation

A1B Bacon Burger Bites On White Polenta Cakes A1

Wow your guests with these irresistible A1® Bacon Burger Bites! Savory, crispy bacon meets creamy polenta cakes in a flavor explosion. The tangy kick of A1® sauce perfectly complements the rich goat cheese polenta, creating a sophisticated yet easy appetizer or light meal. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Low Fat Preparation Time To Make Dietary

Baked Polenta With Garlic

Elevate your dinner with this irresistible Baked Polenta with Garlic! A fantastic alternative to rice, pasta, or potatoes, this creamy polenta is perfectly complemented by Italian meats and sauces – especially our recipe #50879 (link if available). Double or triple the recipe for larger gatherings – it scales beautifully! Fresh rosemary is key for unlocking its vibrant, herbaceous flavor. Adapted from a 1998 Bon Appétit recipe, this classic is sure to become a new favorite. Prepare to be amazed!

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Equipment Southern United States American Grilling

Barbecued Chicken Polenta

This mouthwatering recipe combines juicy, smoky barbecued chicken with a luxuriously creamy parmesan polenta. A vibrant cilantro-garlic marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, while the polenta provides a comforting and satisfying base. Perfect for a summer evening or a special occasion!

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American North American Yams Sweet Potatoes Low In Something

American Sweet Potato Pudding

Indulge in this comforting and delicious American Sweet Potato Pudding, inspired by Huey's Cooking Adventures! This recipe features a creamy, spiced sweet potato base with a customizable touch – add a fluffy meringue topping for an extra layer of sweetness and texture. We've adjusted the sugar content to make it more diabetic-friendly, without sacrificing flavor. Perfect as a cozy autumn dessert or a special occasion treat!

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