Forktionary

Basic Soft Polenta Recipe

This incredibly versatile polenta recipe is your new go-to side dish! Enjoy it creamy and soft straight from the pot, or transform it into crispy, golden-brown delights by chilling, shaping, and pan-frying. Customize your polenta with your favorite cheeses, vegetables, and herbs. Serve alongside hearty stews, succulent braised meats, flavorful grilled sausages, and vibrant roasted vegetables. A fantastic alternative to mashed potatoes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Learn how to make perfectly creamy polenta in just 45 minutes!

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Calories 273.2 kcal
Protein 17g
Rating 4.5 (2 Reviews)
Basic Soft Polenta

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Basic Soft Polenta

  • 1 cup coarse ground cornmeal
  • Chicken Stock
  • Unsalted Butter

How to Make Basic Soft Polenta

  1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of vegetable broth (or water) to a rolling boil.
  2. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of coarse ground cornmeal, ensuring no lumps form. Whisk constantly for the first few minutes.
  3. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, continuing to whisk frequently to prevent sticking.
  4. Reduce heat to the lowest setting, cover the saucepan, and cook for 30-45 minutes, stirring gently every 5-7 minutes. The polenta is done when it is thick and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
  5. For soft polenta, serve immediately. For crispy polenta, pour the cooked polenta into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish. Allow to cool completely and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Once chilled, cut into desired shapes (wedges, squares, or circles). Pan-fry or bake until golden brown and crispy.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Small additions can make a big impact! Try a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of your favorite spice blend, or a squeeze of citrus just before serving to really enhance the flavors of your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

14 g

Sugar

15g

Fat

32g

Carbs

10g

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60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation 5 Ingredients Or Less Side Dishes Easy European Italian Grains Dietary Low Sodium Low Calorie Low In Something Pasta Rice And Grains