Crispy Baked Polenta Fries

Short Description

Crispy Baked Polenta Fries offer a delightful alternative to traditional potato fries. With a golden, crunchy exterior and a soft, creamy interior, these fries are both satisfying and versatile. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, they are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, reducing oil content.
• Versatile: Pairs well with various dips and seasonings.
• Diet-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready.
• Customizable: Easily adapt flavors to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup quick-cook polenta
• 3⅓ cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock for a vegetarian option)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon sea salt flakes
• Pinch of black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

1. Prepare the Polenta: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken stock to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and slowly whisk in the polenta until fully incorporated.
2. Add Flavorings: Stir in butter, Parmesan cheese, chopped rosemary, dried oregano, sea salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens slightly, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Set the Polenta: Pour the polenta into a lined 10×8 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
4. Cut into Fries: Once set, remove the polenta from the dish and cut into fry-shaped sticks of uniform size for even cooking.
5. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 430°F (220°C).
6. Season and Arrange: Place the polenta fries in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Arrange the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake: Bake for 30–40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30–40 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes

Variations

• Herb Variations: Substitute rosemary and oregano with thyme, basil, or sage.
• Cheese Options: Replace Parmesan with vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the polenta mixture.
• Different Shapes: Cut polenta into wedges or rounds for a unique presentation.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve with spicy ketchup, garlic aioli, or marinara sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover polenta fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes or until crispy. Alternatively, use an air fryer for 5–7 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

FAQs

What is polenta?

Polenta is a dish made from coarsely ground cornmeal, commonly used in Italian cuisine. When cooked, it becomes a creamy porridge that can be cooled and solidified for baking or frying.

Can I use pre-cooked polenta?

Yes, pre-cooked polenta can be used. Simply slice it into fries, season, and bake as directed.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, polenta is naturally gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients used are also gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely. Substitute butter with plant-based butter and use vegan cheese or omit the cheese entirely.

How do I prevent the fries from sticking to the baking sheet?

Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to line the baking sheet, and ensure the fries are coated with oil before baking.

Can I freeze polenta fries?

Yes, after cutting the polenta into fries, freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What dips pair well with polenta fries?

Polenta fries pair well with various dips such as marinara sauce, garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or cheese sauce.

Can I fry the polenta fries instead of baking?

Yes, you can deep-fry or pan-fry the polenta fries until golden and crispy.

How do I achieve extra crispy fries?

Ensure the polenta is well-chilled before cutting, and bake the fries until they are deeply golden. For added crispiness, broil for the last 2–3 minutes of baking.

What can I serve with polenta fries?

Polenta fries make a great side dish for grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as part of an appetizer platter.

Conclusion

Crispy Baked Polenta Fries are a delightful and versatile dish that brings a new twist to traditional fries. With their crispy exterior and creamy interior, they are sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or a snack, these fries are both satisfying and adaptable to various dietary needs and flavor preferences.

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