Baked polenta layers

Baked Polenta Layers - A Comforting Delight

Polenta is a traditional dish that brings a touch of nostalgia to every meal. This baked layered polenta recipe is a perfect combination of the creamy texture of polenta and the savory flavor of meat, resulting in an absolutely delicious and comforting dish. It is ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions, and it is easy to prepare, being a simple recipe full of flavor.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

For the polenta:
- 230 g cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 liter water

For the filling:
- 300 g lean pork, diced
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 2-3 tablespoons oil
- 200 g grated cheese
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 eggs

Additionally:
- Butter for greasing the dish
- Sour cream for serving

Instructions

1. Preparing the meat
Start by cutting the pork into evenly sized cubes for even cooking. In a small pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the meat and cover the pot with a lid, allowing the meat to stew and brown, stirring occasionally. This technique helps retain the juices in the meat, making it tender and delicious.

2. Adding the spices
Once the meat is well cooked, add the paprika and a cup of water. Cover the pot again and let it simmer on low heat until the sauce reduces slightly. This step will intensify the flavors and give a wonderful taste to the dish.

3. Preparing the polenta
In a separate pot, bring water to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the salt and gradually stir in the cornmeal, continuously mixing with a whisk. It is important to stir quickly to avoid lumps. The polenta should have a creamy consistency but not be too soft. If it is too thick, add a little warm water.

4. Assembling the dish
Take a round baking dish and grease it with butter to prevent sticking. Pour half of the polenta into the dish, leveling it evenly. Place the meat cubes on top, drained of sauce. Sprinkle 100 g of grated cheese and mix one beaten egg with a tablespoon of sour cream and a little salt. Pour the egg and sour cream mixture over the meat.

5. The final layer
Add the remaining polenta, leveling it well, then sprinkle the rest of the cheese mixed with another beaten egg and a teaspoon of sour cream. The entire mixture will bind well and form a golden crust in the oven.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish with polenta in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy. The aroma that will spread throughout the house will be simply irresistible!

7. Serving
When ready, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve the polenta warm, topped with fresh sour cream. This will add a touch of creaminess that perfectly complements the dish.

Practical Tips

- Meat variation: You can use chicken or beef, depending on your preferences.
- Vegetarian alternative: Replace the meat with mushrooms or grilled vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Cheese types: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as sheep cheese or mozzarella, for a different taste.
- Spices: Add herbs like oregano or basil for extra flavor.

Nutritional Information

This recipe provides a good source of protein due to the meat and eggs, while the polenta is rich in carbohydrates, making it an excellent source of energy. Additionally, cheese adds calcium and healthy fats.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I prepare the polenta in advance?
Yes, you can prepare all the layers in advance and store them in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, bake the dish directly from the fridge.

2. How can I vary the recipe?
You can add sautéed vegetables or olives to the filling for a more complex flavor.

3. Can it be frozen?
Polenta can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh for optimal texture.

This baked layered polenta is not only a tasty dish but also a wonderful way to gather the family around the table. Enjoy your meal!