polenta fries
Polenta fries, crunchy on the outside and soft inside, are a Mediterranean delight that's light and perfect for any healthy snack moment.
Ingredients
Method
- In a saucepan, bring 3 cups of water and 1/2 teaspoon sea salt to a boil over medium heat.
- Gradually whisk in 1 cup of polenta or cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides, about 10-15 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (if using). Add 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary for extra flavor, if desired.
- Spread the hot polenta evenly in a parchment-lined baking dish, about 1-2 cm thick. Smooth the top and let it cool completely (about 20 minutes at room temperature).
- Once set, cut the firm polenta into fries or stick shapes.
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F). Arrange the fries on a baking sheet lightly brushed with olive oil. Brush the tops with a bit more olive oil.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the polenta fries are golden and crispy on the edges.
- Serve immediately, garnished with more parmesan or rosemary if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
Polenta fries are a modern twist on a Mediterranean classic. Their popularity comes from their deliciously crisp edges and soft, buttery centers. They’re a fantastic alternative to potato fries and perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a side dish for main meals.
Tips for Perfect Polenta Fries
- Consistently stir the polenta while cooking to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth texture. Adding the cornmeal slowly to boiling water is key for lump-free results.
- Let the cooked polenta cool completely before cutting. Chilling in the refrigerator makes it firmer and easier to slice into uniform fries.
- Bake or air fry for a light, crispy finish. Spraying or brushing the fries with just a little olive oil helps achieve that golden crunch without deep frying.
- If you’re avoiding dairy, swap the parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast or leave it out, and use plant-based butter for extra creaminess.
Preparation Insights
Feel free to get creative with herbs and spices – rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika give distinctive flavor profiles. If you prefer a cheesier taste, add a bit more parmesan or even a touch of crumbled feta before baking.- Take care to cut the fries evenly; this guarantees even cooking and a uniform crunch.
- For extra crispiness, turn them halfway through baking.
- You can also grill the fries – simply oil and place on a hot grill for smoky flavor and charred edges.
