Creamy Polenta Squares with Parmesan Recipe
This recipe shows you how to make creamy polenta using quick-cook polenta and vegetable or chicken stock, finished with parmesan and butter for richness. After cooling and setting, the polenta is cut into pieces and air fried until golden and crispy, making it a versatile base or side dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes cooking polenta + 15-20 minutes air frying
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16-24 pieces 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for the tin
- 500ml vegetable or chicken stock
- 125g quick-cook polenta
Finishing
- 40g parmesan or vegetarian alternative, grated
- 25g butter
Instructions
- Prepare the tin: Oil and line a Swiss roll tin (31cm x 23cm) with baking parchment to prevent sticking.
- Cook the polenta: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Pour in the stock and bring it to a simmer. Gradually add the polenta while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 10-15 minutes until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Finish the polenta: Remove from heat, then stir in the grated parmesan and butter until completely melted and incorporated.
- Set the polenta: Pour the cooked polenta mixture into the prepared tin, smoothing the surface. Allow it to cool at room temperature for 1 hour until firm.
- Cut and store: Once set, cut the polenta into 16-24 pieces. Store the pieces chilled in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Air fry the polenta: Arrange the polenta pieces in a single layer on your air fryer tray. Cook at 200°C (392°F) for 15-20 minutes until they turn golden and crispy.
- Serve: Serve hot with your choice of toppings for a complete dish.
Notes
- Use either vegetable or chicken stock depending on your preference for a vegetarian or meat-based option.
- Parmesan can be substituted with a vegetarian-friendly cheese alternative if needed.
- You can store uncooked set polenta in the fridge for up to three days before air frying.
- Cooking times in the air fryer may vary slightly depending on the model; watch for a golden color as an indicator of doneness.
- Leftover cooked polenta pieces can be kept for one day in an airtight container.
- For additional flavor, add herbs or spices to the polenta while cooking or top air fried pieces with sauces, vegetables, or proteins.
Keywords: polenta, quick polenta, air fryer polenta, crispy polenta, Italian side dish, vegetarian polenta
