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World's Best Polenta

This polenta is incredibly versatile, making it an ideal canvas for culinary creativity. Whether you choose to garnish it with fresh herbs, roasted cherry tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, grilled shrimp, or a drizzle of balsamic reduction, you're in for an extraordinary dining experience.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup coarsely ground yellow cornmeal
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings:

  • Fresh herbs (e.g., basil, parsley, or thyme), chopped
  • Roasted cherry tomatoes
  • Sautéed mushrooms
  • Grilled shrimp
  • Balsamic reduction

Instructions
 

  • In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil over high heat.
  • Once the water is boiling, slowly pour in the cornmeal while constantly whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to whisk until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
  • Gradually add the whole milk to the thickened cornmeal mixture, whisking constantly to combine. Continue to cook the polenta over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, for about 20-25 minutes, or until it becomes creamy and thick.
  • Stir in the unsalted butter and grated Parmesan cheese, and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the butter and cheese are fully melted and incorporated into the polenta. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  • Once the polenta reaches your desired consistency (it should be creamy and smooth), remove it from heat.
  • Serve the polenta immediately in individual bowls. You can top it with your choice of optional toppings, such as fresh herbs, roasted cherry tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, grilled shrimp, or a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
  • Enjoy your world-class polenta as a side dish or a main course. It's perfect for pairing with a variety of ingredients and flavors.
  • This recipe will yield 4 servings of the world's best polenta, and it's sure to impress anyone fortunate enough to taste it. Enjoy!
Keyword Polenta