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Fried Polenta with Marinara Sauce


  • Author: Marlene Quinn
  • Total Time: 90 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A comforting dish of crispy fried polenta served with a vibrant marinara sauce, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup polenta (cornmeal)
  • 4 cups water or broth
  • Salt, to taste
  • Olive oil or butter, for frying
  • Fresh tomatoes or canned crushed tomatoes, for marinara
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh basil or dried herbs (oregano, thyme), to taste
  • Parmesan cheese (optional), for serving

Instructions

  1. Bring 4 cups of water or broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of polenta, stirring continuously. Add a pinch of salt and reduce heat to low. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring often.
  2. Spread the cooked polenta onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the cooled polenta squares and fry for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
  4. In another pot, sauté diced onions in olive oil until translucent, then add minced garlic. Pour in crushed tomatoes, season, and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes.
  5. Serve crispy polenta topped with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.

Notes

Ensure the oil is hot before frying the polenta for best results. Let the polenta cool completely before frying to maintain its shape.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: polenta, marinara, Italian, comfort food, family recipe