**Creamy Parmesan Polenta: A Culinary Journey into Italian Comfort Food**
Polenta, a staple in Italian cuisine, is a delectable dish that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. Made from coarsely ground cornmeal, this versatile dish can be transformed into a creamy porridge, a crispy snack, or a hearty main course. In this article, we will embark on a culinary adventure to explore the secrets behind creating the perfect Creamy Parmesan Polenta, guided by the expertise of America's Test Kitchen. From selecting the finest ingredients to mastering the art of cooking polenta, we will uncover the techniques that elevate this humble dish into a culinary masterpiece.
In addition to the classic Creamy Parmesan Polenta recipe, we will venture into a world of flavorful variations that showcase polenta's versatility. From the smoky and spicy Chorizo and Poblano Polenta to the vibrant and tangy Salsa Verde Polenta, each recipe is a testament to the endless possibilities that polenta offers. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a home cook seeking a comforting meal, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and inspiration to create unforgettable polenta dishes that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul.
CREAMY PARMESAN POLENTA
Easy and delicious creamy polenta. Makes a great side, appetizer, or base for a hearty stew.
Provided by Keith Haney
Categories Side Dish Grain Side Dish Recipes Polenta Recipes
Time 15m
Yield 4
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Stir polenta and chicken broth together in a saucepan over medium heat; cook and stir until the polenta is heated through completely, about 5 minutes.
- Remove pan from heat. Stir Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and paprika with the polenta mixture.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 532.6 calories, Carbohydrate 87.1 g, Cholesterol 18.2 mg, Fat 12.3 g, Fiber 7.7 g, Protein 18.9 g, SaturatedFat 4.6 g, Sodium 1185.7 mg, Sugar 5.7 g
CREAMY PARMESAN POLENTA
Steps:
- Add the water to a large saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Add the 2 teaspoons of salt and gradually whisk in the cornmeal. Reduce the heat to low and cook until the mixture thickens and the cornmeal is tender, stirring often, about 15 minutes. Turn off the heat. Add the butter, and stir until melted. Stir in the Parmesan and incorporate well. This will slightly thicken the polenta. Add the cream and 1 teaspoon of black pepper and stir with a wooden spoon until incorporated. Taste the polenta, and add a little more salt and a little ground black pepper, if necessary. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve.
CREAMY PARMESAN POLENTA
Steps:
- Place the chicken stock in a large saucepan. Add the garlic and cook over medium-high heat until the stock comes to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and very slowly whisk in the cornmeal, whisking constantly to make sure there are no lumps. Switch to a wooden spoon, add the salt and pepper, and simmer, stirring almost constantly, for 10 minutes, until thick. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pan thoroughly while you're stirring. Off the heat, stir in the Parmesan, creme fraiche, and butter. Taste for seasonings and serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top.
Tips:
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will give your polenta a much better flavor than pre-packaged, pre-grated cheese.
- Don't overcook the polenta. Polenta should be cooked until it is tender, but not mushy. If you overcook it, it will become thick and gluey.
- Stir the polenta constantly while it is cooking. This will help prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot. A heavy-bottomed pot will help distribute the heat evenly and prevent the polenta from burning.
- Season the polenta to taste. Add salt, pepper, and other seasonings to taste before serving.
Conclusion:
Creamy Parmesan polenta is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as a side dish or a main course. It is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. Whether you prefer it creamy or firm, cheesy or subtly flavored, this recipe is a great starting point for creating your own perfect polenta dish.
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