Print

Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds Recipe

Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 6 reviews

Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds are a delightful appetizer or side dish featuring creamy cornmeal polenta enriched with Parmesan cheese and herbs, fried to golden perfection, and baked until extra crispy. These rounds offer a perfect blend of creamy texture inside with a crunchy crust, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Polenta Mixture

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Frying

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Garnish

  • Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil)

Instructions

  1. Boil Vegetable Broth: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil, creating the base for your polenta.
  2. Add Cornmeal: Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, stirring continuously to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
  3. Season and Cook: Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper then lower the heat. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly until the polenta thickens sufficiently.
  4. Add Butter and Parmesan: Remove from heat and stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully combined into a creamy mixture.
  5. Set Polenta: Pour the polenta mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Allow it to cool and set for about 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat Oven: Once the polenta is firm, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) preparing for final crisping.
  7. Cut Polenta Rounds: Using a cookie cutter or glass, cut the set polenta into rounds of desired size.
  8. Fry Polenta Rounds: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and fry the rounds for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
  9. Bake for Crispiness: Transfer the fried rounds to a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes to enhance their crisp texture.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm for a delicious appetizer or side dish.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor and melting quality.
  • For gluten-free option, ensure your cornmeal is certified gluten-free.
  • Polenta can be made ahead and refrigerated before cutting and frying.
  • Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or oregano for varied flavor profiles.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste before setting the polenta.

Nutrition

Keywords: Parmesan polenta rounds, crispy polenta, Italian appetizer, fried polenta, vegetarian appetizer, polenta recipe

Find it online: https://kitchenbyrita.com/crispy-parmesan-polenta-rounds-recipe/