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Ina Garten Creamy Parmesan Polenta Recipe

Ina Garten Creamy Parmesan Polenta Recipe

Are you looking for a cozy meal? You will love this Ina Garten Creamy Parmesan Polenta Recipe.
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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 5
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups WHOLE MILK
  • 2 cups WATER
  • 1 cup YELLOW CORNMEAL
  • 3 tbsp UNSALTED BUTTER
  • 1/2 cup PARMESAN CHEESE
  • 1/4 cup HEAVY CREAM
  • 1 tsp KOSHER SALT
  • 1/2 tsp BLACK PEPPER

Instructions
 

Step 1:

  • Pour the milk and water into the saucepan. Add a pinch of salt to the liquid. Turn the heat to medium-high now. Wait for small bubbles to appear on top.

Step 2:

  • Wait for the liquid to reach a boil. Watch the pot so it does not spill. Lower the heat once it starts bubbling. It should be a very gentle simmer now.

Step 3:

  • Add the yellow cornmeal into the pot slowly. Use your whisk to stir very quickly. This prevents any lumps from forming. The mix should look very even.

Step 4:

  • Switch to using a wooden spoon now. Keep stirring the mixture on low heat. Do this for about ten minutes. The grains will soak up the milk.

Step 5:

  • The polenta will start to get thick. It should look very smooth and heavy. Keep the heat very low for safety. Do not let it pop or splash.

Step 6:

  • Turn off the stove after ten minutes. Let the pot sit for a moment. It will continue to thicken as it rests. The steam will finish the cooking.

Step 7:

  • Add the unsalted butter to the warm pot. Stir it until the butter melts away. It will look very shiny and rich. The smell will be very buttery.

Step 8:

  • Pour in the heavy cream very slowly. Fold it into the cornmeal mixture gently. This makes it feel like silk. It will look very light and pale.

Step 9:

  • Grate the fresh Parmesan cheese into the pot. Stir well so the cheese melts fully. The cheese should disappear into the creamy mix. The texture will be amazing.

Step 10:

  • Taste the polenta carefully with a spoon. Add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve it while it is hot. It is best when fresh.

Notes

  • Always use fresh cheese for the best melting results.
  • Whisk the cornmeal very fast to avoid any lumps.
  • Use whole milk for the most creamy texture possible.
  • Add more warm milk if it gets too thick.
  • Stir the bottom often to prevent any burning bits.
  • Let the polenta rest for five minutes before serving.
  • Use a heavy pot to spread the heat evenly.
  • Try adding herbs like thyme for a fresh taste.
  • Always serve this dish while it is very warm.
  • Don't use instant polenta for this specific recipe.
Keyword Ina Garten Creamy Parmesan Polenta Recipe