POLENTA

Perfect Polenta: a traditional and comforting dish

Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Polenta is a classic dish, essential in many kitchens, with deep roots in culinary traditions. It not only provides a tasty base for many dishes but also a sense of warmth and comfort. It is a simple recipe, but with a few tricks, you can achieve creamy and delicious polenta that will impress anyone.

Ingredients:
- 2 cups of cornmeal (approximately 500 grams)
- 1.5 liters of water
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon of oil or lard

Necessary utensils:
- A large pot
- A whisk or wooden spatula
- A serving bowl

Step by step for the perfect polenta:

1. Preparing the water: Start by putting 1.5 liters of water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt and the teaspoon of oil or lard, which will add flavor to the polenta. The oil is not mandatory, but I recommend it for a finer texture. Bring the water to a boil, so keep the pot over medium heat.

2. Adding the cornmeal: Once the water has started boiling, slightly reduce the heat to prevent splattering. Gradually add the cornmeal in a rain-like manner while constantly stirring with a whisk. This step is crucial to avoid lumps. Continue to stir vigorously for about 5-10 minutes.

3. Cooking the polenta: After adding all the cornmeal, let it simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally. It is important to be patient, as the polenta needs to cook for 30-45 minutes until it becomes thick and creamy. If you notice it is too thick, you can add a little hot water.

4. Testing the consistency: The polenta is ready when it easily pulls away from the sides of the pot and has a uniform consistency. If you prefer softer polenta, you can reduce the cooking time or add more water.

5. Serving: Once the polenta is ready, you can pour it into a bowl or a tray, letting it cool slightly before cutting it into slices. I recommend serving it warm, alongside sheep cheese, sour cream, or even with a mushroom sauce for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Practical tips and variations:
- Types of cornmeal: Use quality cornmeal, preferably stone-ground, which has a better texture. White and yellow cornmeal have different flavors, so experiment to find what suits you best.
- Enhancing flavor: You can add dried herbs, such as thyme or dill, during cooking to provide an extra flavor boost.
- Oven-baked polenta: If you like a crispy crust, you can place the polenta in a buttered tray and bake it in the oven for 20 minutes at 180°C. Served this way, polenta becomes a real delicacy.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Polenta is a filling food, rich in carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. A serving of polenta (approximately 200 grams) has around 200-250 calories, depending on the amount of fat added. It is an excellent option for those following a vegetarian diet, offering fiber and essential nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:
- Why do lumps form in polenta?
This happens when the cornmeal is added too quickly or the mixture is not stirred well enough. Constant stirring is key!

- Can polenta be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare polenta in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it with a little hot water to restore its texture.

- What can polenta be served with?
Polenta pairs perfectly with stews, roasts, cheese, sour cream, or even as a base for a grilled vegetable bowl.

A personal note:
I fondly remember the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, who showed me how to prepare perfect polenta. Her concern was to always use hot water and stir well, while I enjoyed the aroma and texture of polenta cooked with love. Making polenta is more than just a culinary act; it is a way to create memories and bring the family together.

In conclusion, polenta is a versatile dish, full of tradition and flavor. With these tips and steps, you will be able to prepare it easily and impress anyone. Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones!