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Fried Polenta with Marinara Sauce

Crispy golden polenta bites topped with rich marinara sauce, a delightful comfort food perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Polenta
  • 1 cup polenta
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt plus more for seasoning
  • Vegetable oil for frying
For the Marinara
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
Optional Garnishes
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese optional
  • Fresh basil optional, for garnish

Method
 

Preparation of Polenta
  1. In a medium pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil.
  2. Add 1 teaspoon of salt.
  3. Gradually whisk in the polenta to avoid lumps.
  4. Cook for about 20 minutes on low heat, stirring frequently until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pot.
Setting the Polenta
  1. Pour the cooked polenta into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  2. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes until firm.
Frying the Polenta
  1. Once firm, gently remove the polenta from the dish and cut it into desired shapes.
  2. In a skillet, heat enough vegetable oil over medium-high heat to coat the bottom.
  3. Once shimmering, add the polenta slices and fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and crispy, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet.
Final Steps
  1. While the polenta is frying, warm your marinara sauce in a small pot over low heat.
  2. Plate the crispy polenta and generously spoon marinara over the top.
  3. Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Notes

For a gluten-free alternative, ensure your polenta is labeled as such. For a dairy-free version, skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative. Allowing the polenta to cool sufficiently before frying is key to achieving that ideal crispy exterior. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.