Polenta with cheese

Polenta with cheese – a comforting and flavorful dish

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Polenta is a traditional dish, appreciated for its creamy texture and comforting taste. This simple recipe for polenta with cheese promises to bring joy and warmth to your table, reminiscent of a meal enjoyed by generations. With a delicious combination of sheep cheese and Brie cheese, plus a splash of bacon, this recipe can quickly become your family's favorite!

Necessary ingredients

For polenta:
- 2 cups of water
- 1 cup of cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cube of butter (about 20 g)

For the filling:
- 100 g of sheep cheese (or feta cheese, if you prefer)
- 2 large slices of Brie cheese
- 1 teaspoon of butter (for gratin)
- 1 teaspoon of olive oil (for added flavor)
- 2 slices of bacon (optional, for a smoky taste)
- Sour cream or full-fat yogurt (for serving)

Preparing the polenta

1. Start by placing the 2 cups of water in a large pot, add salt, and bring to a boil. It is important to use a deep pot to avoid splashing during boiling.

2. When the water starts to boil, gradually add the cornmeal while continuously stirring with a whisk. This step is essential to prevent lumps from forming. Keep mixing vigorously.

3. After a few minutes, when the polenta starts to boil and pulls away slightly from the sides of the pot, add the butter cube. Mix well so that the butter melts and incorporates evenly.

4. Once the polenta is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside, covered, while you prepare the filling.

Preparing the filling

5. Take 2 heat-resistant bowls and grease them with a little olive oil. This will help prevent the polenta from sticking and will add a subtle flavor.

6. Start assembling the dish. Place 2-3 tablespoons of polenta in each bowl. This will form the delicious base.

7. Grate or crumble the sheep cheese and add a generous portion over the polenta.

8. Follow with another layer of polenta, then add a smaller amount of sheep cheese, followed by the slices of Brie cheese. The Brie will bring a unique creaminess and delicate flavor to the dish.

9. If you choose to use bacon, cut the slices into small pieces and sprinkle them between the layers of cheese.

10. Add a small cube of butter on top of each bowl for a golden and delicious crust.

Baking in the oven

11. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the bowls in the heated oven and let them bake for 15 minutes. You will notice how the cheese melts and forms a golden and appetizing crust on top.

Serving

12. Once the polenta with cheese is ready, carefully remove the bowls from the oven as they will be very hot. You can wait a few minutes before serving or you can turn them directly onto plates, as we did, to add a touch of originality.

13. Serve the dish with a spoonful of sour cream or full-fat yogurt, which will add a note of freshness and deliciously contrast with the warm polenta.

Useful tips

- Use high-quality cornmeal to achieve a fine and creamy polenta.
- If you prefer softer polenta, you can add a little more water during boiling.
- You can vary this recipe by adding different types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional information

This polenta with cheese recipe provides an excellent source of carbohydrates from the cornmeal, offering energy for the whole day. Sheep cheese is rich in protein and calcium, contributing to bone health. Bacon, although optional, adds an extra boost of protein and healthy fats, but it is important to consume it in moderation. A serving of polenta with cheese has about 500 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, but cornmeal is the most suitable for achieving the characteristic texture of polenta.

2. Is polenta with cheese suitable for vegans?
For a vegan version, you can omit the cheese or use vegan cheese instead of traditional cheese.

3. What other sides go well with polenta?
Polenta pairs wonderfully with various dishes, such as stews, soups, or even as a side to meat dishes.

Personalized version

To add a personal touch, you can try adding herbs, such as thyme or marjoram, to the polenta before adding the cheese. These will bring a fresh aroma and transform the dish into an even more savory experience.

This polenta with cheese is more than just a simple dish – it is a family story, a means of gathering people around the table and savoring simple yet joyful moments. Don't hesitate to try this recipe and adapt it to your tastes! Enjoy your meal!