Cornmeal pie with chanterelles

Delicious Pie with Polenta and Chanterelles

The passion for mushrooms is a true culinary art, and chanterelles, with their delicate aroma, are the stars of this comforting dish. This polenta and chanterelle pie recipe will surely become one of your favorite dishes, whether you serve it at a family meal or at a gathering with friends. Additionally, the combination of textures and flavors will surprise everyone.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 250 g polenta
- 500 ml milk
- 300 g fresh chanterelles
- 150 g grated cheese
- 30 g butter + extra butter for greasing the pan
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste

Recipe story

Polenta is a traditional dish, often considered the "mother" of all cornmeal preparations. Over the years, it has transformed from a simple staple into the main ingredient in many sophisticated recipes. Chanterelles, on the other hand, are wild mushrooms with a vibrant color palette that add a subtle yet profound flavor, perfect for enriching dishes. This recipe combines these two ingredients in an innovative way, creating a pie that blends tradition with culinary refinement.

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the polenta
In a large pot, add 500 ml of milk and 250 g of polenta. Bring the mixture to a boil, constantly stirring with a whisk to avoid lumps. Add salt to taste. Reduce the heat and continue stirring until the polenta becomes soft and creamy, about 10-15 minutes. Once ready, set the polenta aside to cool slightly.

2. Preparing the chanterelles
Clean the chanterelles under a stream of cold water, removing any impurities. Dry them well with a kitchen towel and cut them into smaller pieces. In a skillet, heat 30 g of butter over medium heat. Add the chanterelles and let them fry, stirring occasionally, until their juice has completely evaporated and they turn slightly golden, about 10-15 minutes.

3. Combining the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the warm polenta with the fried chanterelles, half of the grated cheese, ground pepper, and salt if needed. Mix well so that all ingredients are homogenized.

4. Preparing the baking dish
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent the pie from sticking. Pour the polenta and chanterelle mixture into the dish, smoothing it out with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

5. Baking
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the surface becomes golden and crispy.

6. Serving
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, alongside a spoonful of sour cream for a creamy and delicious contrast.

Useful tips

- Choosing chanterelles: Make sure to choose fresh chanterelles, with a vibrant color and no spots. Dried chanterelles will not provide the same flavor.
- Variations: You can also add other mushrooms, such as porcini or champignon, to enrich the flavor of the dish.
- Serving: This pie pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or a fragrant herbal tea, which will complement the taste of the mushrooms.

Nutritional benefits

Polenta is a good source of carbohydrates, while chanterelles are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet. The cheese adds a dose of protein and calcium, making this pie a nutritious and delicious option.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of milk?
Yes, you can use almond or soy milk for a vegan version.

2. How can I store leftovers?
You can keep the pie in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. It can also be reheated in the oven or microwave.

3. What other dishes can I pair with this pie?
This pie goes excellently with a green salad or grilled vegetables.

4. Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Absolutely! It is a 100% vegetarian recipe, full of flavors and textures.

Conclusion

This polenta and chanterelle pie is not just a simple recipe, but an invitation to explore the richness of natural flavors. Savor each bite and enjoy the moments spent in the kitchen, turning each ingredient into a delicious story. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main dish, it will surely be a memorable preparation. Bon appétit!