Polenta with cheese (Paturi)

Polenta with cheese and bacon - a comforting delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Overview

Polenta is a traditional dish that brings pleasant memories of family meals. This classic recipe for polenta with cheese, bacon, and salami will enrich any meal with flavor and warmth. Combining the creamy texture of polenta with the salty taste of cheese and meat, this dish quickly becomes a favorite for everyone. Here’s how to prepare it step by step.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 cup water (about 250 ml)
- 1 cup cornmeal (about 150-170 g)
- 100 g bacon (or lardons, as preferred)
- 100 g salami or sausages (optional, you can also use ham)
- 150 g sheep cheese (or feta cheese, if preferred)
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Salt (to taste)

Ingredient details

Cornmeal is the main ingredient of polenta and provides the specific texture of the dish. You can choose finer or coarser cornmeal, depending on your preferences. Bacon adds intense flavor, while the salami or sausages can vary based on what you have available. Sheep cheese, with its strong aroma, is the ideal choice, but you can also experiment with other types of cheese. Sour cream, although optional, perfectly complements this dish, adding a note of creaminess.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Prepare the water: In a large pot, add 1 cup of water and sprinkle salt to taste. Place the pot over medium heat and wait for it to reach boiling point.

2. Fry the bacon: While the water heats up, cut the bacon into thin slices. In a pan, fry the bacon until it becomes crispy and golden, then remove it from the pan and place it on a plate covered with paper towels to absorb the excess fat.

3. Fry the salami: In the same pan, use the remaining fat from the bacon to fry the salami cut into small cubes. Let it cook for a few minutes until it becomes slightly crispy. You can add a little oil if necessary. Remove it from the pan and set aside.

4. Prepare the polenta: Once the water has started to boil, reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the cornmeal while continuously stirring with a wooden spoon or whisk to prevent lumps from forming. If you want a softer polenta, add more water and less cornmeal.

5. Cook the polenta: Continue stirring constantly for about 15-20 minutes until the polenta pulls away from the sides of the pot and becomes creamy.

6. Assemble the dish: Prepare a large platter or deep bowl. Place a layer of polenta at the bottom of the dish, followed by a layer of bacon, salami, and cheese. Continue alternating layers of polenta, bacon, salami, and cheese, finishing with a final layer of polenta.

7. Finalize and serve: On top, add the remaining salami and bacon, along with a few pieces of cheese. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and let it sit for a few minutes to meld the flavors. Serve warm, with sour cream on top, as desired.

Useful tips

- For a richer polenta: You can add a little butter or olive oil during the preparation of the polenta for a more intense flavor.
- Vary the ingredients: Instead of salami, you can use homemade sausages or even fried vegetables for a vegetarian option. Cheese can be replaced with feta or mozzarella, depending on your preferences.
- Diverse flavors: Add spices, such as freshly ground pepper or sweet paprika, to enhance the flavors.

Nutritional benefits

Polenta is a good source of carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. It is low in fat, while the cheese and bacon add proteins and calcium, essential for bone health. Served with sour cream, this dish becomes a complete meal that will provide you with all the necessary nutrients.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use instant cornmeal?
It is not recommended, as it will not have the same creamy texture. Traditional cornmeal ensures an optimal result.

2. How can I store polenta?
You can store polenta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water to restore it.

3. What can I serve with polenta?
Besides sour cream, polenta pairs wonderfully with a spicy tomato sauce or a fresh green salad to balance the taste.

Personal story

I fondly remember the days spent at my grandmother's house when autumn turned into a festival of flavors. Polenta with cheese and bacon was always a favorite choice, savored with loved ones. This recipe is not just a dish, but a memory of beautiful times and strong bonds. Each bite brings with it a story, and I hope that you too will create equally beautiful memories with this recipe.

In conclusion, polenta with cheese and bacon is a dish that not only offers a delicious taste but also a connection to the culinary traditions of the place. By experimenting with ingredients and techniques, you can create a dish that will become part of your culinary story. Enjoy every step and savor the result!