Quick Polenta

Name: Quick Polenta
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 cup quick-cooking polenta; 4 cups water; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

15 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Quick Polenta

Whip up a creamy and versatile quick polenta side dish in just minutes.

Prep

5 min

Cook

10 min

Total

15 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Polenta, a staple in Italian and Quebecois cuisine, is a versatile dish made from cornmeal. While traditionally slow-cooked, this quick version allows you to enjoy its creamy texture in a fraction of the time. Perfect as a side dish or a base for meats and vegetables, quick polenta is an ideal addition to your culinary repertoire. It absorbs flavours beautifully, making it a great canvas for various seasonings and toppings.

Instructions

Boil water

In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil over medium-high heat.

Add polenta

Gradually whisk in 1 cup of quick-cooking polenta, reducing the heat to low. Continue whisking to prevent lumps.

Pro tip: Use a steady hand while whisking to ensure a smooth texture.

Cook polenta

Cook, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes or until the polenta thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.

Pro tip: If the polenta is too thick, add a little more water to reach the desired consistency.

Add butter and cheese

Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.

Pro tip: For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil and skip the cheese.

Serve

Serve immediately while hot, either as a creamy side or a base for other dishes.

Pro tip: Top with freshly cracked black pepper for added flavour.

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Tips & Tricks

Use a whisk to prevent lumps in the polenta.
Adjust the consistency by adding more liquid if needed.
Adding butter at the end gives a rich flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

recette avec la polenta

Quick polenta is a versatile base that can be flavoured with cheese, herbs, or served with sauces and grilled meats.

Can I make polenta ahead of time?

Yes, you can make polenta ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it with a bit of water or broth to loosen the consistency.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

You can substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar flavour. For a non-dairy option, nutritional yeast can be used.

How do I know when the polenta is done?

The polenta is done when it is thick and pulls away from the sides of the pot, usually after 5-7 minutes of cooking.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe by doubling all the ingredients. Ensure you use a pot large enough to accommodate the increased volume.

Serving Suggestions

Serve quick polenta warm, topped with your favourite sauce or alongside grilled meats and vegetables. It pairs wonderfully with roasted tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms. To make ahead, cool the polenta on a baking sheet, then slice and fry or grill slices for a crispy texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.