Golden Crispy Polenta Fries

Polenta fries are a delightful twist on a classic snack, offering a crispy exterior with a creamy interior that’s both satisfying and flavorful. The concept of transforming polenta into fries is an ingenious culinary innovation that caters to both comfort food enthusiasts and health-conscious eaters alike. These Golden Crispy Polenta Fries are not only easy to make, but they also serve as a versatile addition to any meal or occasion. Whether you're serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a snack, these polenta fries are sure to impress your family and friends.

Discover the amazing world of Golden Crispy Polenta Fries, a delicious twist on a classic snack! With a perfect combination of a crispy exterior and creamy interior, these versatile fries can elevate any meal or occasion. Learn about the rich history of polenta, its nutritional benefits, and how easy it is to prepare this delightful dish. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this scrumptious recipe that’s perfect as an appetizer, side, or snack!

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Ingredients

1 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)

4 cups water

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Fresh herbs (rosemary or parsley) for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Polenta: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually whisk in the polenta while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.

Cook the Polenta: Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring for about 15-20 minutes until the polenta thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan. Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.

Chill the Polenta: Spread the cooked polenta into an even layer in an 8x8 inch baking dish or on a lined baking sheet. Smooth the top with a spatula and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also refrigerate it for a quicker set, around 15 minutes.

Shape the Fries: Once the polenta has set and is firm, turn it out onto a cutting board. Cut it into fry-sized strips (about 1/2 inch thick).

Bake the Fries: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the polenta fries on the baking sheet and brush or drizzle them lightly with olive oil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Serve: Remove the fries from the oven and optionally sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese while they’re still hot. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara or aioli!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings