Polenta balls with cheese and sausages

Delicious polenta balls with cheese and sausages: a recipe that combines tradition with an unmistakable taste

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Discover a recipe for polenta balls with cheese and sausages that will not only delight you but also bring a touch of nostalgia with every bite. These balls are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even as a main dish for a meal with loved ones. The combination of creamy polenta, salty cheese, and fried sausages is simply irresistible.

The history of polenta is long and fascinating. This dish is associated with the culinary traditions of many cultures, being considered a versatile and nourishing staple food. Polenta has been cooked since ancient times, and the addition of cheese and sausages adds a richness and flavor that transforms a simple dish into a true feast.

Ingredients:

- 500 g polenta (made from 250 g cornmeal and water)
- 250 g sausages (preferably smoked for an intense flavor)
- 100 g telemea cheese (grated or crumbled)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Grated cheese (for serving)
- Sour cream (for serving, optional)

Ingredient details:

Polenta: It's important to use quality cornmeal to achieve a fine and creamy texture. You can choose between fine or coarse cornmeal, depending on your preferences.

Sausages: Choose pork or mixed sausages, preferably with a smoky note, to add rich flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, you can opt for chicken or turkey sausages.

Telemea cheese: This provides a cheesy and salty flavor, but you can substitute it with goat cheese or mozzarella, depending on your preferences.

Preparation technique:

1. Preparing the polenta: In a large pot, bring 1 liter of water to a boil. When the water starts to boil, gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the polenta for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes thick and consistent. Once ready, remove it from the heat.

2. Frying the sausages: In a skillet, add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the sausages and fry until they are golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, chop them finely and let them cool slightly.

3. Mixing: In a large bowl, combine the hot polenta with the beaten egg, grated telemea cheese, and chopped sausages. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition.

4. Forming the balls: Using wet hands, take portions of the polenta mixture and form balls the size of a ping-pong ball. Place them in a heat-resistant dish, leaving some space between them for even baking.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 220°C and bake the balls for 20 minutes or until they become golden and slightly crispy on the outside.

6. Serving: Serve the balls hot, sprinkled with grated cheese and accompanied by sour cream for an extra flavor. You can also add fresh herbs on top, such as parsley or dill, for a fresher look and taste.

Useful tips:

- If you want to prepare a vegetarian version, you can replace the sausages with fried vegetables or mushrooms, and the cheese can be substituted with a vegan option.
- These balls can also be cooked in a skillet, frying them in hot oil to achieve a crispy crust.
- You can experiment with different flavors by adding spices like paprika or garlic to intensify the taste.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

A serving of polenta balls with cheese and sausages contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. They provide a good source of carbohydrates from the polenta, protein from the egg and sausages, as well as calcium from the cheese.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I prepare the balls in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the polenta mixture with sausages and cheese in advance. Form the balls and keep them in the refrigerator, baking them just before serving.

2. Can I freeze the balls?
Unbaked balls can be frozen. Make sure to place them on a tray in the freezer, then you can transfer them to an airtight container. When you want to prepare them, bake them directly from the freezer, but you will need to extend the baking time.

3. What other recipes can they be paired with?
Polenta balls pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or a yogurt and dill sauce. You can also serve them alongside a warm soup, such as tomato soup or vegetable soup.

Add a personal touch: I love to make these balls on weekends when I meet with friends. It’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy a delicious dish together while sharing stories from the week. Trying out different variations, each gathering becomes a unique feast, full of good cheer and beautiful memories.

Enjoy your meal! I hope these polenta balls with cheese and sausages bring you joy and flavor at every meal!