polenta fries
Polenta fries, the crunchy and healthy snack you can make at home. Discover how to prepare irresistibly golden fries!
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F). Lightly grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a saucepan, bring the water and salt to a gentle boil. Stir in the polenta gradually, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Cook over low heat, stirring continuously, for about 5 minutes or until thickened and pulling away from the sides.
- Remove from heat. Add olive oil, black pepper, garlic powder, and nutritional yeast (if using). Mix well.
- Pour the hot polenta into a greased baking dish and spread into a smooth layer about 1.5 cm (½ inch) thick. Let cool for at least 20 minutes until set and firm.
- Cut the firm polenta into fry-shaped sticks using a sharp knife.
- Arrange the polenta fries on the baking sheet. Brush lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped herbs if desired.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy on the edges.
- Serve hot, with your favorite dip.
Notes
Polenta fries are a delightful twist on traditional fries, beloved for their versatility and irresistible crunch. They’re perfect as a snack, a side for grilled dishes, or even as a party appetizer. If you’ve never tried them, you’ll love the naturally golden color and satisfying texture—crisp outside, tender inside.
Practical Tips & Ingredient Swaps
- For extra crispiness, let the cooked polenta cool completely before cutting it into fries. A few extra minutes in the fridge makes them even easier to handle and crispier when baked.
- If you don’t have nutritional yeast, try grated Parmesan for a savory boost, or skip it for a classic flavor.
- You can replace olive oil with melted butter for more richness, or use a splash of garlic-infused oil for aroma.
- Herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano add a fragrant touch—mix them directly into the polenta or sprinkle on top before baking.
Preparation & Serving Suggestions
- Spread the polenta in a baking dish lined with plastic wrap or lightly greased; this makes unmolding and slicing much simpler.
- For a uniform shape, use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, and dip the blade in water between cuts to prevent sticking.
- If you prefer deep frying, polenta fries become even crispier—just be gentle when moving them to hot oil, as they can be delicate.
- Pair your fries with marinara sauce, aioli, or spicy mayo for dipping.
- Transform them into a main by topping with sautéed mushrooms, cheese, or even a poached egg for a heartier dish.
