20-Minute Creamy Polenta with Mushrooms and Melting Cheese
EQUIPMENT
- Medium size pot
INGREDIENTS
- 2 cups/480 milliliters milk
- 2 cups/480 milliliters water
- 2 corn cobs, cooked
- 1 tablespoon coarse salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 thyme sprig / 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ cup/70 grams corn flour
- ~5½ tablespoons/75 grams butter
- 2 cups mixed cheeses (emmental, mozzarella, and parmesan)
Toppings:
- 3-4 portobello mushrooms, sliced
- 1 bunch asparagus spears, about 16-18, trimmed
- 6-8 little butter cubes
- A pinch of coarse salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Shredded parmesan, as much as you like
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a pot, heat the milk and water over medium heat until the liquid starts to simmer. Remove the corn from the cobs using a knife and add to the pot. Add the salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Gradually add the corn flour while stirring constantly until it thickens, about 5 minutes. Add the butter and mixed cheeses, and continue stirring until they are fully incorporated.
- In a separate pan, sauté the mushrooms and asparagus with butter until tender. Spoon the polenta onto a plate, top with sautéed mushrooms and asparagus, garnish with butter cubes, salt, ground pepper, and shredded parmesan.
MY NOTES
FAQ
What goes best with creamy polenta?
Creamy polenta pairs perfectly with a variety of delicious toppings and accompaniments. Some excellent choices include sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or a medley of fresh herbs. For a more indulgent option, melt a blend of gourmet cheeses on top, such as gorgonzola, parmesan, or fontina. For added texture and flavor, try adding crispy bacon, toasted pine nuts, or caramelized onions. The versatility of creamy polenta allows it to complement a wide range of dishes, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
Is polenta the same as grits?
Polenta and grits share similarities, both being made from ground corn. However, they differ in texture and preparation. Polenta hails from Italy, using yellow cornmeal, resulting in a creamy and smooth consistency. Grits, a Southern US dish, use white corn, yielding a slightly grainier texture. While they have distinct regional origins, both are delicious staples with their unique taste and culinary versatility.
Is polenta good for stomach?
Polenta can be a good option for those with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues. As a gluten-free and easily digestible food, it is gentle on the stomach. The high fiber content in polenta can promote digestive health and aid in regular bowel movements. However, individual reactions to food vary, so it’s essential to listen to your body and consume polenta as part of a balanced diet.
