Polenta with Parmesan Cheese Recipe: A Comforting Italian Staple
Polenta with Parmesan cheese is a classic Italian dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts worldwide. This creamy, comforting dish is made from ground cornmeal and is often served as a side dish or a main course. The addition of melted Parmesan cheese gives it a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of meats and vegetables. In this article, we will share a simple and delicious polenta with Parmesan cheese recipe that you can easily make at home.
Ingredients
To make this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4 cups of water
– 1 cup of polenta (coarse cornmeal)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme), additional grated Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
1. Begin by bringing the water to a boil in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt to the water and stir to dissolve.
2. Once the water is boiling, gradually whisk in the polenta, making sure to avoid any lumps. Reduce the heat to a low simmer and continue to whisk the polenta constantly for about 5-7 minutes. The polenta should start to thicken as it cooks.
3. While the polenta is cooking, melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, remove from heat and set aside.
4. After the polenta has cooked for 5-7 minutes, it should be smooth and creamy. Stir in the melted butter, salt, grated Parmesan cheese, and freshly ground black pepper. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the polenta is fully incorporated and the cheese has melted.
5. Taste the polenta and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
6. Serve the polenta hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil. You can also top it with your favorite meats, vegetables, or sauces to create a variety of delicious dishes.
Polenta with Parmesan cheese is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you serve it as a side dish with roasted chicken or as a main course with a hearty ragù, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds and bring a touch of Italian cuisine to your table. Buon appetito!
