Oven-baked polenta

Baked Polenta - A Crispy and Savory Delight

If you're in the mood for a comforting and delicious dish, today I propose an innovative recipe for baked polenta. This simple and rustic dish will bring a touch of nostalgia to your plate, but with a modern twist, perfect for a savory dinner or a revitalizing lunch. Polenta is a traditional dish, and transforming it into a baked version makes it even more appetizing.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Your ingredients are:
- 350 g fine cornmeal
- 1 liter water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 small yogurt (125 g)
- 125 g margarine
- 50 g grated cheese
- 50 g grated fresh cheese
- 2 sausages (for garnish)

The history of polenta:
Polenta, this versatile dish, has been appreciated over time for its simplicity and accessibility. In many cultures, it has been a source of hearty food, often used as a base for other dishes or served alongside various sides. Today, baked polenta combines tradition with innovation, offering a crispy texture on the outside and a deliciously soft creaminess on the inside.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the water: Start by bringing 1 liter of water to a boil in a large pot. Add a teaspoon of salt to flavor the polenta. It's important to use fresh water, as this will influence the final texture of the dish.

2. Adding the cornmeal: Once the water starts to boil gently, gradually add 350 g of fine cornmeal, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon. This step is crucial to avoid lumps. If you want to ensure a fine polenta, you can use a whisk to mix.

3. Cooking the polenta: After incorporating all the cornmeal, put a lid on the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the polenta simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. Here, patience is key!

4. Incorporating the ingredients: After 20 minutes, add 125 g of margarine. Stir well until it melts completely. Then, add the yogurt, which will give the polenta a special creaminess and a slightly tangy flavor.

5. Pouring into the tray: Prepare a dry tray (no need to grease it) and pour the polenta into it, leveling the surface with a spatula.

6. Adding the cheeses: Sprinkle 50 g of grated cheese and 50 g of grated fresh cheese on top. These cheeses will melt beautifully in the oven, creating a delicious crust, so don't skimp on the quantity!

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 °C and place the tray with polenta inside. Leave it in the oven for 10 minutes, or until the cheese melts and turns golden.

8. Garnishing: In the last minutes of baking, you can fry the sausages in a separate pan until they become crispy. They will add a flavor boost to your polenta. Once the polenta is ready, take it out of the oven and garnish with the fried sausages.

Enjoy your meal!

Useful tips:
- Choosing the cornmeal: Opt for fine cornmeal, as this type has a finer granulation, which will help achieve a creamier texture.
- Variations: You can experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or feta, to add a personal touch.
- Serving: Baked polenta pairs wonderfully with a green salad or a side of pickles, to add a contrast of textures and balance the flavors.
- Frequently asked questions:
- *Can polenta be frozen?* Yes, you can freeze the polenta after it has completely cooled. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.
- *How can I make the polenta less dense?* Add more water while cooking, but be careful not to overdo it, as this may compromise the texture.

Nutritional benefits:
Polenta is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing you with the energy you need for the whole day. Adding cheeses and yogurt contributes to the intake of proteins and calcium, essential for bone health.

In conclusion, baked polenta is a simple dish but with a perfect taste that will bring joy and comfort to your meals. By experimenting with ingredients and sides, you can adapt it to your liking. Remember that cooking is an art, and every recipe can be a canvas for you to leave your personal mark!