Polenta is a staple in many cuisines and can be incredibly budget-friendly. Its mild flavor makes it a versatile ingredient that can work in a variety of dishes. Here are some cheap and easy ideas for cooking with polenta.
Classic Creamy Polenta
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of polenta
- 4 cups of water or chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Bring the water or chicken stock to a boil in a large pot.
- Gradually whisk in the polenta and salt, then reduce the heat to low.
- Continue to stir regularly for about 30 minutes, until the polenta is creamy and the grains are tender.
- Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until well combined, then serve immediately.
This creamy polenta can be served as a side dish or used as a base for other recipes.
Polenta Pizza
Ingredients:
- 1 batch of creamy polenta (from the recipe above)
- 1/2 cup of pizza sauce
- 1-2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- Your choice of pizza toppings: bell peppers, olives, mushrooms, onions, etc.
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (around 400°F).
- Spread the creamy polenta in a thin layer on a baking sheet, then bake for about 20 minutes, until it starts to become firm.
- Remove the polenta from the oven and top it with the pizza sauce, shredded cheese, and your chosen pizza toppings.
- Return the polenta to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow the polenta pizza to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Polenta Fries
Ingredients:
- 1 batch of creamy polenta (from the recipe above)
- Cooking spray or oil for brushing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- After cooking the polenta, spread it in a thin layer in a rectangular baking dish or pan and let it cool completely. It should firm up considerably.
- Once the polenta is firm, cut it into fry-like strips.
- Preheat your oven to 220°C (about 425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the polenta fries on the baking sheet, brush them lightly with oil or spray them with cooking spray, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy. Turn them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.
- Allow them to cool slightly before serving, as they’ll continue to firm up.
Serve these polenta fries with your favorite dipping sauce for a fun and budget-friendly snack or side dish.
Polenta Porridge
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of polenta
- 3-4 cups of milk
- 2 tablespoons of honey or sugar
- Fresh fruit, nuts, or additional toppings as desired
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, bring the milk to a boil.
- Gradually whisk in the polenta, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, enta porridge hot, topped with your favorite fruits, nuts, or additional sweeteners as desired.
This sweet take on polenta makes a comforting breakfast or dessert. Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
Polenta Pizza Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 batch of creamy polenta (from the recipe above)
- 1 cup of pizza sauce
- 1-2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- Your favorite pizza toppings
Instructions:
- Prepare the polenta and spread it out in a thin layer in a baking dish or on a pizza stone. Allow it to cool and firm up.
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 400°F).
- Spread the pizza sauce over the polenta, leaving a little edge for the “crust.”
- Sprinkle the cheese over the sauce, then add your favorite pizza toppings.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Allow the polenta pizza to cool slightly before cutting into bite-sized pieces.
These polenta pizza bites are a great gluten-free and budget-friendly alternative to traditional pizza. You can customize them with whatever toppings you have on hand.
Baked Polenta with Vegetables
Ingredients:
- 1 batch of creamy polenta (from the recipe above)
- 2-3 cups of mixed vegetables, roasted or sautéed
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the polenta, then spread it out in a baking dish.
- Top the polenta with your cooked vegetables, spreading them out evenly. If using, sprinkle the cheese on top.
- Bake at 200°C (about 400°F) for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden (if using).
- Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving.
This baked polenta dish is a great way to use up leftover vegetables and create a hearty, budget-friendly meal.
