Polenta with salty cheese and smoked ham from Uncle Cornel

Polenta with salty cheese and smoked ham from Uncle Cornel

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 3

Polenta is a traditional dish, full of flavor and comfort, that reminds us of hearty meals from childhood. This recipe for polenta with salty cheese and smoked ham, inspired by Uncle Cornel's delicacies, promises to delight your taste buds. Polenta is a fantastic choice for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner, being a versatile dish that can be customized in many ways.

Ingredients

- 250 g cornmeal (for 3 servings)
- 750 ml water
- 50 g butter
- 150 g telemea cheese (preferably one with a special taste)
- 100 g smoked ham (from Uncle Cornel, with plenty of meat and intense flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- 3 eggs (optional, for serving)

Preparing the polenta

1. Boil the water: In a medium pot, bring 750 ml of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor of the polenta.

2. Add the cornmeal: When the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to medium and gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly with a wooden spatula to prevent lumps from forming. It is important to add the cornmeal slowly to achieve a smooth consistency.

3. Cook the polenta: Continue stirring the polenta for 10-15 minutes until it becomes creamy and starts to pull away from the sides of the pot. If you find that the polenta is too thick, you can add a little hot water to thin it out.

4. Sweeten with butter: When the polenta is ready, add the butter and mix well until it melts completely, giving it a rich aroma and delicate taste.

Preparing the cheese and ham

5. Prepare the cheese: Grate the telemea cheese using a large grater. This will add a salty and creamy flavor, perfect for balancing the tastes in the polenta.

6. Fry the ham: Cut the smoked ham into thin strips or cubes. In a pan, heat a little oil and fry the ham over medium heat until it becomes crispy and golden. This step will intensify the ham's flavor and add a pleasant texture to the dish.

Assembling the dish

7. Serve the polenta: On a platter, place the warm polenta, then generously sprinkle the grated telemea cheese and add the fried ham on top.

8. Add the fried egg (optional): If you want to add extra flavor, you can fry a soft egg and place it on top of the polenta. The egg will add creaminess and a touch of refinement to this rustic dish.

Practical tip: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, to vary the taste. Additionally, if you enjoy spice, add a few slices of fried chili pepper for an extra kick.

Nutritional benefits: Polenta is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. The cheese adds protein and calcium, while the smoked ham, although lower in nutrients, contributes protein and a savory flavor.

Calories: A serving of polenta with cheese and ham can have approximately 400-450 calories, depending on the amount of cheese and ham used.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use milk instead of plain water?
Yes, using milk will make the polenta creamier and richer in flavor.

- How can I store the polenta?
Polenta can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

- What other side dishes can I serve with the polenta?
Polenta pairs perfectly with tomato sauces, sautéed vegetables, or even a serving of cooked mushrooms.

This polenta with salty cheese and smoked ham from Uncle Cornel is not just a simple recipe, but also an opportunity to enjoy traditional flavors, reconnect with pleasant memories, and savor a comforting dish. Get ready to delight your senses and bring a touch of tradition to your plate!