POLENTA CREAMY GOOD AND ALMOST NO STIR

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Polenta Creamy Good and Almost No Stir image

I was one of few that tested this for Cook's Illustrated. I was very impressed with this method which uses a secret ingredient of baking soda. Baking soda added to the cooking liquid can reduce the time it takes for the gelatinization to occur which in turn shortens the cooking time. You can use vegetable stock or chicken broth in place of the water. I tasted and it was good but wanted to kick it up and added chopped scallions and chopped chipotles for a kick. Just remember to simmer over very low heat so low you don't think it is cooking.

Provided by Rita1652

Categories     < 60 Mins

Time 45m

Yield 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 9

7 1/2 cups water
2 teaspoon salt (I used 1/2 the recipe called for 1 1/2)
1 pinch baking soda
1 1/2 cups coarse ground cornmeal
2 tablespoons butter (I used smart balance) or 2 tablespoons Smart Balance Omega Plus (I used smart balance)
4 ounces parmesan cheese, 2 cups grated
black pepper
1 scallion, sliced (optional)
1 chipotle chile in adobo, seeded and minced (optional)

Steps:

  • Bring water to boil in a heavy bottom 4 quart pan over medium high heat.
  • Stir in salt, and baking soda. Slowly pour cornmeal into the water in a steady stream stirring with a wooden spoon.
  • Bring to a boil stirring consistently for 1 minute.
  • Reduce to the very lowest heat possible and cover.
  • After 5 minutes whisk polenta to smooth out any lumps for 15 seconds,scraping down sides and bottom of pan. Cover and continue to cook without stirring until grains are tender but slightly al dente. About 25 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and stir in butter and cheese.
  • Stir in scallions and chipotle if using.

Moonlight Galaxy
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This polenta was a disaster. I'm never making it again.


Joshua Thiiru
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I'm sorry, but this polenta was just plain bad. I couldn't even finish it.


Jibran Javed
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This recipe is a waste of time and ingredients. I would not recommend it to anyone.


Hafsa Hafsa
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I'm not sure what all the hype is about. This polenta was just okay. I've had better.


Katrecia Cofield
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This recipe is way too time-consuming. I don't have 2 hours to wait for polenta to cook.


Amjad Amjad
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I followed the recipe exactly, but my polenta turned out lumpy. I'm not sure what I did wrong.


Fasasi Aishat
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This polenta was a bit bland for my taste. I think I'll add some more salt and pepper next time.


Bipana Kuna
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I'm not a big fan of polenta, but this recipe was actually pretty good. It was creamy and flavorful, and I liked the hands-off cooking method.


Mukesh
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This polenta is the perfect side dish for any meal. It's hearty and filling, but it's also light and fluffy.


Queen Temitope gold
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I love how versatile this polenta is. I've served it with everything from roasted vegetables to grilled chicken, and it's always delicious.


Jordan McKinney
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I've made this polenta several times now, and it's always a hit with my family and friends.


caalaa Galamsiiyee
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I was really impressed with how easy this recipe was to follow. Even a beginner cook could make it.


jibon Khan
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This polenta is so creamy and delicious. It's the perfect comfort food for a cold winter night.


itsgamingpro99 YT channel
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I love that this recipe doesn't require any stirring. I can just set it and forget it, which is perfect for when I'm short on time.


Muskanabeera Muskanabeera
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This is the best polenta recipe I've ever tried. It's so easy to make and it always comes out perfect.


Ryan Walsh
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I've never been a fan of polenta before, but this recipe has changed my mind. It's so flavorful and versatile, I can see myself making it all the time.


Pearl. Betsy
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This polenta recipe is a game-changer! It's so creamy and delicious, and the hands-off cooking method is a lifesaver on busy weeknights.