Fried Polenta Slices

Fried Polenta Slices Recipe from Moldova and Romania | Delicious and Easy-to-Make

Region / culture: Moldova, Romania | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Fried Polenta Slices are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as a side or main course. The crispy exterior and creamy interior of the polenta slices make them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

History

Polenta is a traditional Italian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. Originally made with just cornmeal and water, polenta has evolved over time to include milk, cheese, and butter for added flavor and richness. Fried polenta slices are a popular variation of this classic dish, offering a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy polenta.

Ingredients

1 lb (0.5 kg) of cornmeal
0.75 qt (0.75 liters) of water
0.75 qt (0.75 liters) of milk
2 to 3 tbsp of grated parmesan
1 tbsp of butter
additional butter
grated parmesan
sour cream

How to prepare

There are two options for this recipe.
Option 1: Prepare a firm polenta by boiling it, then slice it and fry the slices in hot oil.
Serve the fried polenta slices with whipped dry beans or peas.
Option 2: Prepare a soft polenta by combining cornmeal, water, and milk in equal quantities.
Add 2 – 3 tbsp of grated Parmesan and 1 tbsp of butter to the mixture.
Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Pour the polenta mixture onto a wet wooden cutting board.
Allow the polenta to cool, then cut it into diamond shapes.
Fry the diamond-shaped polenta in hot butter, sprinkle with Parmesan, and serve with sour cream and pickled vegetables.

Variations

Add herbs and spices to the polenta mixture for extra flavor.
Top the fried polenta slices with marinara sauce and melted cheese for a twist on classic Italian flavors.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a unique taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use a wet wooden cutting board to shape the polenta for easier cutting and handling.

- Make sure the oil or butter is hot before frying the polenta slices to ensure a crispy exterior.

- For a healthier option, you can bake the polenta slices instead of frying them.

- Experiment with different seasonings and toppings to customize the flavor of the fried polenta slices.

Serving Suggestions

Fried polenta slices can be served as a side dish with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a tasty snack or appetizer.

Cooking Techniques

Frying is the traditional method for cooking polenta slices, but you can also bake them in the oven for a healthier option. Simply place the sliced polenta on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cornmeal on hand, you can use polenta or grits as a substitute. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the polenta mixture in advance and refrigerate it until ready to fry. Simply shape the polenta into slices or diamonds, cover with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the fried polenta slices on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs, grated cheese, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Fried polenta slices pair well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and sautéed greens. They also go well with a glass of red wine or a refreshing beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover fried polenta slices can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the polenta slices on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of fried polenta slices contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of fried polenta slices contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of fried polenta slices contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of fried polenta slices contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Fried polenta slices are a good source of vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

Fried polenta slices contain dairy (milk, cheese, butter) and cornmeal, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Fried polenta slices are a delicious and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.

Summary

Fried polenta slices are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side or main course. With a crispy exterior and creamy interior, they are sure to be a hit at your next meal. Experiment with different seasonings and toppings to customize the flavor of this classic Italian dish.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Fried Polenta Slices. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, known throughout our small town for her delicious and comforting dishes.

One day, as I was helping her in the kitchen, she pulled out a worn and stained recipe card from a drawer. She explained that it was a recipe she had learned from a friend many years ago, and it had become a family favorite ever since. The recipe was for Fried Polenta Slices, a dish I had never heard of before.

As she began to gather the ingredients and walk me through the steps of making the dish, I was captivated by the simplicity and versatility of polenta. The cornmeal-based dish could be transformed into creamy porridge, firm slices, or crispy snacks, depending on how it was prepared. I watched in awe as my grandmother effortlessly whipped up a batch of polenta, shaping it into a thick slab that would later be sliced and fried until golden and crispy.

The process of making the Fried Polenta Slices was a labor of love, requiring patience and attention to detail. The polenta had to be cooked slowly, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Once it reached the perfect consistency, it was poured into a greased pan and left to set, forming a solid mass that could be easily sliced into individual portions.

After the polenta had cooled and firmed up, my grandmother carefully cut it into thick slices, dusted them with cornmeal, and fried them in hot oil until they were golden and crispy on the outside. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, a combination of toasty cornmeal and sizzling oil that made my mouth water in anticipation.

As we sat down to enjoy the Fried Polenta Slices together, I marveled at how something so humble and unassuming could be transformed into such a delicious and satisfying dish. The exterior was crispy and crunchy, while the interior remained soft and creamy, a perfect contrast of textures that delighted the senses.

Over the years, I have made the Fried Polenta Slices countless times, each batch reminding me of that first magical experience in my grandmother's kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this simple yet satisfying dish to future generations.

As I look back on that day with my grandmother, I am grateful for the lessons she taught me about cooking and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. The memory of making Fried Polenta Slices together will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.