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–+ servings
Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds

Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds: Your New Favorite Appetizer

Crispy Parmesan Polenta Rounds are a quick and delicious gluten-free appetizer that marries creamy polenta with a satisfying crunch.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 4 rounds
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Polenta Base
  • 1 cup cornmeal fine or medium grind
  • 4 cups vegetable broth for boiling
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 2 tablespoons butter
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
For Frying
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
For Garnish
  • fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, basil)
Optional Variations
  • vegetable add-ins such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes
  • cheese swap like sharp cheddar or feta
  • vegan alternative nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan

Equipment

  • medium saucepan
  • whisk
  • Spatula
  • Baking Dish
  • Skillet
  • cookie cutter

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of vegetable broth to a rolling boil over high heat.
  2. Gradually add 1 cup of cornmeal while continuously whisking to prevent lumps.
  3. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste, then reduce heat to low and cook for 25-30 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
  5. Pour the polenta mixture into a greased baking dish, spread evenly to about ½ inch thick, and cool for 30 minutes.
  6. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours until firm, then cut out 2-inch rounds.
  7. In a skillet, heat ¼ inch of olive oil over medium-high heat and fry the rounds for 3-4 minutes each side.
  8. Optionally, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes for extra crispiness.
  9. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1roundCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 4gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure the polenta is cooked thoroughly to prevent overly soft rounds. Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature.

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