Italian Recipe

Description

Classic Polenta Recipe

Ingredients

Italian Recipe

• Water
• Salt
• Cornmeal
• Favorite sauce (optional)

Prepare the Water
Bring water to a boil in a large, heavy pot. Add salt, then reduce the heat so the water is simmering gently.Italian Recipe

Add Cornmeal Slowly
Take cornmeal by the handful and add it very slowly to the water, letting it flow in a thin stream through your fingers. Stir constantly with a long-handled wooden spoon to prevent lumps. If the mixture thickens too quickly, stop adding cornmeal for a moment and beat vigorously to keep it smooth.

Cook the Polenta
Continue stirring constantly for 20–30 minutes. The polenta will thicken as it cooks. It is done when it pulls away cleanly from the sides of the pot.

Shape and Cool
Pour the cooked polenta onto a large wooden board or platter. Wet your hands and smooth it evenly to about 2 inches thick. Let it cool for 5–10 minutes, or until it solidifies.

Cut and Serve
Once cooled, cut the polenta into slices approximately 1 inch wide and 6 inches long. Place each slice in individual dishes. Serve hot and cover with your favorite sauce, such as tomato, cheese, or mushroom sauce.

Tips for Best Results

• Use a heavy pot to prevent sticking.
• Stir constantly to maintain a smooth, creamy texture.
• Wet your hands when shaping polenta to avoid sticking.
• Leftover polenta can be fried or grilled for a tasty variation.