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comforting creamy garlic polenta

Garlic Polenta

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This velvety garlic polenta transforms humble cornmeal into a luxurious side dish through slow cooking. Infused with garlic and finished with butter and Parmesan, it creates a silky, comforting base that pairs beautifully with everything from roasted vegetables to braised meats.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2½ cups milk plus ¼ cup more if needed
  • 4 cups water
  • 1½ teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1½ teaspoons salt
  • ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 1½ cups polenta or yellow cornmeal preferably stone-ground
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into pieces
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated preferred

Equipment

  • Heavy saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. In a large, heavy saucepan, combine water, milk, minced garlic, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, whisking occasionally.
  2. Once the liquid reaches a boil, gradually whisk in the polenta or cornmeal, adding it slowly to prevent lumps from forming.
  3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 35-40 minutes, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon. The mixture will thicken considerably as it cooks.
  4. If the polenta becomes too thick during cooking, add the remaining ¼ cup of milk to maintain a creamy consistency.
  5. Once the polenta has reached a smooth, velvety texture, remove from heat and stir in the butter pieces and grated Parmesan cheese until completely melted.
  6. Remove the bay leaf, taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve immediately while hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcal

Notes

For the best texture, stone-ground polenta is recommended, though regular yellow cornmeal works well too. The key to perfectly smooth polenta is frequent stirring and patience during the cooking process.
This polenta makes an excellent base for braised meats, roasted vegetables, or sautéed greens. For variation, try using chicken or vegetable stock instead of water for added flavor depth.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or water to restore the creamy consistency.

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