Polenta roll filled with cheese

Polenta roll filled with cheese - a traditional recipe with a delicious twist

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

I invite you to discover a recipe that combines tradition with a touch of innovation: the polenta roll filled with cheese. This dish is not only tasty but also an excellent way to transform simple ingredients into a delight that you can enjoy anytime, whether it's a family lunch or a dinner with friends.

The history of polenta is deeply rooted in culinary culture, being a staple food often associated with moments of conviviality. This recipe will remind you of the flavors of childhood, with a modern twist, turning polenta into a delicious roll.

Ingredients:
- 250 g cornmeal
- 300 g sheep cheese
- 300 g mushrooms (preferably champignon or oyster)
- 2-3 green onions
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Pepper to taste
- Water (approximately 1 liter)

Step 1: Preparing the polenta
Start by bringing 1 liter of water to a boil in a cauldron. Add a teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavor. When the water is boiling, gradually incorporate 250 g of cornmeal, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon to avoid lumps. Continue stirring for 20-25 minutes until the polenta becomes creamy and pulls away from the sides of the cauldron. Once cooked, transfer the polenta onto aluminum foil, spreading it as evenly and thinly as possible. Let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
In a deep pan, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until golden and they release their juices. Add the finely chopped green onions and continue to cook for a few more minutes until the onions become translucent. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 3: Combining the ingredients
In a bowl, mash the sheep cheese with a fork, then add the mushroom and green onion mixture. Sprinkle with chopped dill and season with pepper to taste. Mix all ingredients well to obtain a homogeneous and flavorful filling.

Step 4: Assembling the roll
Over the spread polenta, evenly distribute the cheese, mushroom, and onion filling. Using the aluminum foil, carefully roll the polenta, forming a tight roll. Ensure that the filling remains well wrapped inside. Once the roll is formed, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and let it cool for 15-20 minutes.

Step 5: Cutting and serving
After it has cooled, unwrap the aluminum foil and cut the roll into slices of desired thickness. You can serve them as an appetizer or as a main dish, alongside a fresh salad or yogurt sauces. A serving suggestion is to pair them with a spicy tomato sauce or a lemon arugula salad.

Useful tips:
1. If you want to add extra flavor, you can try adding some chopped olives or bell peppers to the filling.
2. The polenta roll can be prepared a day in advance; keep it in the fridge and serve it cold or slightly warmed.
3. Save any leftover polenta to use in other recipes, such as polenta meatballs or vegetable soup.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Polenta is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. Sheep cheese, in addition to its distinct flavor, provides an important source of protein and calcium. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to a strong immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with feta or ricotta cheese, depending on your preferences.

2. What other ingredients can I add to the filling?
Besides mushrooms and green onions, you can add spinach, zucchini, or even cooked ground meat.

3. How can I vary the recipe?
You can turn the polenta roll into a vegetarian dish by adding more vegetables or make a meat version by adding cooked ground meat to the filling.

This cheese-filled polenta roll is a perfect combination of tradition and innovation, full of flavors and textures that will captivate you from the first bite. I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it to your liking. Enjoy your meal!