Polenta

Polenta is an Italian dish. It's a thickly boiled cornmeal porridge with a bright yellow color and a slightly sweet taste. It was originally prepared in the peasant homes of Northern Italy.

Polenta can be thick or thin. It's served as a substitute for pasta, rice, or potatoes. It's also used in place of breadcrumbs when frying chicken or fish.

Raw polenta makes a wonderful addition to flour in pastries, cookies, and cakes. It contains gluten and imparts a distinct flavor. Polenta cakes are typically moist and dense, with a pleasant grainy texture.

How to buy?

In Italy, polenta comes in a variety of forms, from fairly runny to very thick. Different consistency requires different cooking times. Some types cook instantly, in just 5-8 minutes, while others take 45 minutes.

Ready-made polenta is sold in solid rolls or squares. Simply cut it and it's ready to eat.

Culinary uses

Uncooked polenta can be used in place of flour in baked goods. In savory dishes, it's cooked. To do this, add it to boiling water and stir. The amount of water needed is usually indicated on the packaging. The polenta is then eaten immediately or added to dishes, although it can also be grilled or baked after cooking and then cut into pieces.

Cooking polenta in milk or broth will give it a unique flavor. You can add butter, a handful of grated Parmesan, or sprinkle with Gorgonzola cheese.