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Polenta Fries Recipe

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4.4 from 43 reviews

  • Author: Mary & Susan
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These crispy Polenta Fries are a delicious, gluten-free alternative to traditional potato fries, made with creamy polenta, parmesan cheese, and baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a snack or side, they offer a rich, savory flavor with a satisfyingly crunchy texture.

Ingredients

Polenta Mixture

  • 2½ cups water (540ml)
  • 1 clove garlic (grated)
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup polenta (160g)
  • ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (18g)
  • 1 tablespoon butter

For Baking

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil (divided, 60ml)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Polenta: In a medium saucepan, combine the water, grated garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Slowly add the polenta while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
  2. Cook the Polenta: Once the polenta has absorbed the water, reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 5 minutes, whisking frequently until the mixture becomes smooth, starchy, and thickened.
  3. Thicken Further: Continue cooking the polenta for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally and scraping the sides and bottom of the pot to prevent sticking. The polenta should be very thick and the grains softened.
  4. Prepare Pan: While cooking, grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper. Grease the parchment paper as well to prevent sticking.
  5. Incorporate Cheese and Butter: Remove the polenta from heat and stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese and butter until well combined.
  6. Set the Polenta: Pour the polenta mixture into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until completely chilled and firm. This can also be done overnight for convenience.
  7. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Remove the firm polenta from the pan and cut the slab into halves, then slice each half into ½ inch wide by 4 inch long plank-shaped pieces.
  8. Prepare Fries for Baking: Brush a large sheet tray with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Arrange the polenta fries in a single layer on the tray, making sure to leave space between each piece. Brush the tops and sides of the fries with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
  9. Bake: Bake the polenta fries for 25 to 30 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy all over.
  10. Season and Serve: Once baked, season with additional salt, pepper, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

  • Polenta fries can be made a day ahead and refrigerated overnight to save time.
  • For extra crispiness, you can flip the fries halfway through baking.
  • If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil and omit the parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
  • Leftover fries can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispness rather than microwaving.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://mysimpledish.com/polenta-fries-recipe/