How to Make Perfect Polenta (2024)

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222 Reviews

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Polenta is nothing more than coarsely ground cornmeal. The classic ratio is 1 part polenta to 4 parts water, but I like to measure the polenta just a little scant of a full cup. I often use chicken broth instead of water. It's a great base for any kind of saucy meat or mushroom ragout.

John Mitzewich

John Mitzewich — aka Chef John — has produced more than 1,500 cooking videos for Allrecipes.He's the actor, director, and screenwriter whose hands and voice confidently walk you through techniques.

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Updated on May 22, 2024

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Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

35 mins

Additional Time:

5 mins

Ingredients

4 cups water
1 teaspoon fine salt
1 cup polenta
3 tablespoons butter, divided
½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, plus more for garnish

Directions

Bring water and salt to a boil in a large saucepan; pour polenta slowly into boiling water, whisking constantly until there are no lumps.
Reduce heat to low and simmer, whisking often, until polenta starts to thicken, about 5 minutes. Polenta mixture should still be slightly loose. Cover and cook for 30 minutes, whisking every 5 to 6 minutes. When polenta is too thick to whisk, stir with a wooden spoon. Polenta is done when texture is creamy and the individual grains are tender.
Turn off heat and gently stir 2 tablespoons butter into polenta until butter partially melts; mix 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese into polenta until cheese has melted. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes to thicken.
Stir polenta and transfer to a serving bowl. Top polenta with remaining 1 tablespoon butter and about 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese for garnish.

Chef's Note

Cooking time will depend on the polenta grind, so you'll have to adjust accordingly.

Editor's Note:

This pairs perfectly with our beef short ribs recipe.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

291	Calories
15g	Fat
31g	Carbs
9g	Protein

Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe4
Calories291
% Daily Value *
Total Fat15g	19%
Saturated Fat8g	41%
Cholesterol33mg	11%
Sodium1186mg	52%
Total Carbohydrate31g	11%
Dietary Fiber3g	10%
Total Sugars2g
Protein9g	18%
Vitamin C12mg	13%
Calcium202mg	16%
Iron4mg	21%
Potassium15mg	0%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.