Best 2 Creamy Vegan Polenta Recipes
Indulge in the creamy delight of vegan polenta, a delectable dish that offers a symphony of flavors and textures. This versatile dish, hailing from the northern regions of Italy, has become a culinary sensation worldwide. Our curated collection of recipes explores diverse culinary interpretations of vegan polenta, catering to various dietary preferences and taste palates. From the classic creamy polenta to innovative variations featuring roasted vegetables, sun-dried tomatoes, and tantalizing herbs, our recipes unveil the versatility of this humble cornmeal dish. Each recipe is meticulously crafted to ensure a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying experience, making vegan polenta the star of any meal. Whether served as a hearty main course, a comforting side dish, or a delectable appetizer, vegan polenta promises an unforgettable culinary journey.
Let's cook with our recipes!
CREAMY VEGAN POLENTA WITH MUSHROOMS AND KALE
While it may be difficult to imagine many classic Italian dishes without a generous sprinkle of Parmesan, polenta's creamy nature means it's easy to make without butter or cheese. Nutritional yeast, when used in moderation, mimics the nutty flavor of Parmesan, but use too much, and it can overpower. Just a tablespoon or two does the trick here, along with a few tablespoons of vegan butter. (You can use olive oil, but vegan butter works best to achieve the richness of traditional polenta.) The red wine braised mushrooms and kale take the place of meat, but the polenta would be equally delicious served with simply sautéed greens or roasted root vegetables. Leftover polenta can be reheated over medium-low with a splash of broth or water.
Provided by Lidey Heuck
Categories dinner, vegetables, main course
Time 45m
Yield 4 servings
Number Of Ingredients 17
Steps:
- Make the polenta: Bring 6 cups vegetable broth and 1 teaspoon salt to boil in a large saucepan. Gradually whisk in the polenta, then turn the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, until the polenta has thickened to your liking, 10 to 15 minutes. Off the heat, stir in the butter and nutritional yeast. Season to taste with salt and black pepper; cover and set aside.
- Prepare the mushrooms: While the polenta simmers, heat the olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 4 minutes. Raise the heat to medium-high, and add the mushrooms and rosemary to the skillet. Cook, tossing occasionally and adding a splash of olive oil if the pan looks dry, until the mushrooms have released their water and are tender, 4 to 6 minutes.
- Add the garlic and red-pepper flakes, and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. (Be careful not to let the garlic burn.) Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring to incorporate, until it turns a rusty brown color and begins to caramelize on the bottom of the pan.
- Add the red wine and cook, stirring and scraping the brown bits from the pan, until the liquid is reduced by about half.
- Add the 1 cup vegetable broth, and bring to a simmer. Begin adding handfuls of kale, cooking and stirring until the kale wilts. Add 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid in the pan reduces and thickens, about 10 minutes.
- Off the heat, stir in the vinegar and add salt and pepper to taste. Reheat the polenta over medium-low, adding a splash of broth to loosen it if necessary. Serve the polenta and braised mushrooms and kale in shallow bowls, sprinkled with parsley.
CREAMY VEGAN POLENTA
While traditional Italian polenta is typically finished with butter and grated Parmesan, the porridge-like texture of simmered cornmeal makes for a dish that's creamy and comforting without dairy. This recipe uses a few tablespoons of vegan butter (any kind will do) to lend richness, and substitutes nutritional yeast for Parmesan. Use the nutritional yeast sparingly: The right amount beautifully mimics the nutty, fragrant flavor of Parmesan, but use too much, and it can overpower. This dish is a versatile side, but can easily be turned into a main, like this creamy vegan polenta with mushrooms and kale, with the addition of sautéed or roasted vegetables.
Provided by Lidey Heuck
Categories dinner, weekday, grains and rice, side dish
Time 20m
Yield 4 servings
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Bring 6 cups vegetable broth and 1 teaspoon salt to boil in a large saucepan. Gradually whisk in the polenta, then turn the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, until the polenta has thickened to your liking, 10 to 15 minutes.
- Off the heat, stir in the butter and nutritional yeast and season to taste with salt and black pepper. Serve immediately. (Leftover polenta can be reheated over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water.)
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water.
- Add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Stir in some roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms, for a more hearty meal.
- Top with your favorite vegan cheese, such as shredded mozzarella or parmesan, for a gooey, decadent dish.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Conclusion:
Creamy vegan polenta is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, this polenta is sure to be a hit with vegans and non-vegans alike. So next time you are looking for a satisfying and comforting meal, give this creamy vegan polenta a try!
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