Creamy Parmesan Polenta Delight
Experience the ultimate in comfort food with this Creamy Parmesan Polenta Delight. This velvety polenta dish is made with a rich blend of half-and-half and water, creating a luxurious base that perfectly complements the subtle flavors of coarse cornmeal and aromatic butter. Topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and black pepper, it serves as a wonderful base for a variety of toppings, from sautéed mushrooms to poached eggs, making it a versatile and satisfying option for breakfast or brunch. Enjoy a warm bowl of this polenta wonder that will leave you feeling cozy and content!
4
Servings
225
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
half-and-half
2 cups (none)
water
2 cups (none)
salt
1 1/2 teaspoons (none)
coarse cornmeal
1 1/2 cups (none)
unsalted butter
4 tablespoons (cubed)
grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (freshly grated)
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, combine the half-and-half and water, and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
2
Once boiling, add the salt and gradually whisk in the coarse cornmeal. Stir continuously to prevent lumps.
3
Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer and continue stirring constantly; this ensures a creamy and smooth texture.
4
Cook the polenta for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until it thickens and large bubbles rise to the surface, but avoid letting it become too stiff.
5
Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the cubed butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and freshly ground black pepper until fully combined.
6
Serve the polenta immediately, topped with your preferred garnishes or enjoyed plain.
Nutrition Information
13g
Fat
19.5g
Carbs
6g
Protein
1.5g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Parmesan Polenta Delight?
It is a velvety comfort food dish made with cornmeal, half-and-half, butter, and Parmesan cheese, suitable for breakfast or brunch.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 225 calories.
Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat products.
What type of cornmeal should I use?
The recipe calls for 1.5 cups of coarse cornmeal.
How long does it take to cook the polenta?
The polenta typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes to thicken once the cornmeal is added.
What liquids are used for the base?
The base uses a combination of 2 cups of half-and-half and 2 cups of water.
How much fat is in one serving?
There are 13 grams of fat per serving.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
Each serving contains 19.5 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein does this dish provide?
This polenta dish provides 6 grams of protein per serving.
Is there any fiber in this recipe?
Yes, there is 1.5 grams of fiber per serving.
How much butter is needed?
The recipe requires 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, cubed.
What kind of cheese is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
How do I prevent lumps in the polenta?
To prevent lumps, gradually whisk in the cornmeal and stir continuously while cooking.
At what heat should I cook the polenta?
Bring the liquid to a boil over medium heat, then lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
When should I add the Parmesan and butter?
Add the butter and Parmesan immediately after removing the saucepan from the heat.
What are some suggested toppings?
Suggested toppings include sautéed mushrooms or poached eggs.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
No sugar content is listed for this specific recipe.
How much salt is required?
The recipe calls for 1.5 teaspoons of salt.
Can I store the leftovers?
While best served immediately, polenta can be stored and reheated, though it may thicken significantly.
What is the preparation for the butter?
The butter should be unsalted and cut into cubes before being added.
What is the preparation for the Parmesan?
The Parmesan should be freshly grated for the best texture and flavor.
Is this recipe considered easy to cook?
Yes, it is tagged as an 'easy cooking' and 'quick' recipe.
What is the consistency of this polenta?
The result is a creamy, velvety, and smooth texture.
How do I know when the polenta is done?
It is done when it thickens and large bubbles rise to the surface, but before it becomes too stiff.
What category of food does this fall into?
It is categorized as a Breakfast dish.
Can I add pepper?
Yes, the recipe suggests adding freshly ground black pepper to taste.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to combine the half-and-half and water in a saucepan and bring them to a gentle boil.
Is there any sodium or cholesterol information?
Sodium and cholesterol data are not provided in the nutritional facts for this recipe.
Can this be served plain?
Yes, the polenta can be enjoyed plain or with your preferred garnishes.