Description
This is a simple and delicious recipe for creamy polenta, perfect as a side dish or a base for other flavorful toppings. Learn how to prepare polenta with this easy-to-follow guide.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups Water
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup Yellow Cornmeal (Polenta) (Use coarse or medium ground.)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (Optional, for extra richness)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated, optional)
Instructions
- Bring the water and salt to a boil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Using a whisk, slowly pour the cornmeal into the boiling water while continuously whisking to prevent lumps.
- Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, stirring frequently, for about 25-30 minutes, or until the polenta is very thick and pulls away from the sides of the pan. You’ll need to stir more frequently as it thickens to prevent sticking.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter (if using) and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with additional salt to taste.
- Serve immediately as a side dish or as a base for your favorite toppings, such as roasted vegetables, mushrooms, or a hearty ragu.
Notes
- For a smoother polenta, use a whisk vigorously throughout the cooking process. You can also add other flavorings, such as herbs, garlic, or cheese, to customize the polenta to your liking.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 3
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 4
- Cholesterol: 10
Keywords: polenta, creamy polenta, how to prepare polenta, side dish, Italian food, gluten-free