Fried Polenta Slices I

Fried Polenta Slices I Recipe from Romania | Ingredients: Cornmeal, Milk, Parmesan, Sour Cream

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 30 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 Originally made with just cornmeal and water, polenta has evolved over time to include various ingredients such as milk, cheese, and butter. Fried Polenta Slices are a modern twist on this classic dish, adding a crispy texture to 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.
Once the polenta has cooled, cut it into diamond shapes.
Fry the diamond-shaped polenta in hot butter and sprinkle with Parmesan.
Serve the fried polenta with sour cream.

Variations

Add herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or basil to the polenta mixture for extra flavor.
Top the fried polenta slices with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese for a twist on classic Italian flavors.
Use different types of cheese such as cheddar, gouda, or feta to customize the dish to your taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use medium or coarse cornmeal for the best texture in your polenta.

- Stir the polenta constantly while cooking to prevent lumps from forming.

- To achieve a crispy exterior on the polenta slices, fry them in hot oil until golden brown on both sides.

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

Serving Suggestions

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

Cooking Techniques

Frying, Boiling, Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor in the polenta.

- Substitute olive oil for butter for a healthier option.

- Use almond or coconut milk instead of dairy milk for a dairy-free version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the polenta mixture in advance and refrigerate it until ready to fry. The fried polenta slices can also be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Presentation Ideas

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

Pairing Recommendations

Fried Polenta Slices pair well with a variety of dishes such as grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. They also go well with a glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover fried polenta slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices in a preheated oven or toaster oven 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 and Calcium.

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 is relatively low in calories and high in carbohydrates. They are a good source of fats and proteins, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Fried Polenta Slices are a versatile and delicious 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 gathering. Experiment with different flavors and toppings to customize the dish to your taste preferences.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting a quaint little town in Italy with my husband. We had decided to take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling marketplace.

As we wandered through the colorful vendor stalls, the aroma of sizzling food filled the air. My stomach grumbled in anticipation, and I eagerly followed my nose to a small food stand tucked away in a corner. There, an elderly woman with a warm smile was frying up crispy golden slices of polenta.

I had never tried polenta before, but I was intrigued by the savory scent wafting from the griddle. I watched as the woman deftly flipped the slices, their edges turning a delicious shade of brown. I couldn't resist the temptation and ordered a plate for myself.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to food heaven. The polenta was crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside, with a rich, buttery flavor that melted in my mouth. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this delectable dish myself.

I struck up a conversation with the kind woman, who introduced herself as Nonna Maria. She graciously shared her recipe with me, along with some tips and tricks she had picked up over the years. I scribbled down notes on a scrap of paper, eager to recreate the magic in my own kitchen.

Back home, I wasted no time in trying my hand at making fried polenta slices. I followed Nonna Maria's instructions to the letter, carefully stirring the cornmeal into boiling water and adding a generous sprinkle of salt. As the mixture thickened, I poured it into a greased pan and let it set until firm.

Once the polenta had cooled and solidified, I sliced it into thick rounds and fried them in hot oil until they were crispy and golden brown. The scent that filled my kitchen was irresistible, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

I plated the fried polenta slices alongside a fresh salad and some grilled vegetables, eager to share my creation with my family. As they took their first bite, their eyes widened in delight, and I knew I had struck gold.

From then on, fried polenta slices became a staple in our household. I would make them for special occasions, family gatherings, or just as a comforting weeknight meal. Each time, the dish transported me back to that sunny day in Italy, where I had first discovered the simple yet sublime pleasure of polenta.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe to suit my family's tastes, adding a sprinkle of herbs or a dollop of marinara sauce for a twist. But the basic essence of Nonna Maria's recipe remains unchanged, a testament to the enduring power of tradition and shared culinary knowledge.

As I look back on that fateful day in Italy, I am filled with gratitude for the serendipitous encounter that led me to fried polenta slices. The dish has brought joy and comfort to my loved ones, and I am proud to carry on the legacy of Nonna Maria's delicious recipe for generations to come.