Golden-Crusted Polenta Squares
**Golden-Crusted Polenta Squares: A Simple Yet Satisfying Side Dish** Polenta, a classic Italian dish made from cornmeal, is often overlooked in favor of its more glamorous cousin, risotto. But polenta has a lot to offer, especially when it's cooked with care and given a crispy, golden crust. This recipe for polenta squares is easy to make and can be served as a side dish or a main course. The polenta is creamy and flavorful, with a slight tang from the nutritional yeast. The crust is crispy and golden brown, adding a nice textural contrast. And the whole dish is topped with a sprinkling of vegan parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, which add a touch of umami and freshness. Polenta is a versatile dish that can be dressed up or down to suit your taste. Serve it as a side dish with your favorite grilled meats or fish, or top it with a hearty vegetable stew. You can also make polenta squares ahead of time and reheat them when you're ready to serve. Just be sure to reheat them gently so that the crust doesn't overcook.
Polenta has a long and storied history, dating back to the ancient Romans. It was a staple food for the Roman army, who would often cook it in large cauldrons over open fires. Polenta was also popular among the poor, who would often eat it with nothing more than a drizzle of olive oil. Over time, polenta became a popular dish throughout Italy, and it is now enjoyed by people of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds. The recipe for polenta squares that I'm sharing with you today is inspired by a dish that I had at a restaurant in Venice. The polenta was creamy and flavorful, with a crispy, golden crust. I was so impressed by the dish that I decided to recreate it at home. After a few tries, I finally got the recipe just right. Now, I'm sharing it with you so that you can enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make dish.
Golden-Crusted Polenta Squares Golden-Crusted Polenta Squares Golden-Crusted Polenta Squares Golden-Crusted Polenta Squares
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 30 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup vegan parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
  1. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil.
  2. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the nutritional yeast, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Transfer the polenta to a lightly oiled 8-inch square pan and spread to an even thickness.
  5. Sprinkle with the vegan parmesan cheese and parsley.
  6. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
  7. Let cool slightly before cutting into squares.
  8. Serve warm.
Why It Works
  • The use of vegetable broth gives the polenta a rich and flavorful base.
  • The nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor to the polenta.
  • The olive oil helps to create a crispy crust on the polenta.
  • The salt and pepper help to balance the flavors of the polenta.
  • The vegan parmesan cheese and fresh parsley add a touch of umami and freshness to the polenta.