Polenta Frita
Polenta frita (also known as fried polenta or polenta fries) is a delicious Italian appetizer or side dish. It's crispy on the outside, and creamy and salty on the inside. Ready in less than 30 minutes!
Servings 4
Calories 75kcal
Ingredients
- 1 (18-oz) package precooked polenta *see notes for homemade version
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil optional
Instructions
- Slice the polenta into fry-like shapes, about 1⁄2 inch wide and 3-4 inches long. Make sure the pieces are similar in size so they cook evenly. Depending on your preference, you can cut the polenta into thicker or thinner fries or rounds.1 (18-oz) package precooked polenta
- Add the fries to a bowl and coat with olive oil. Then, add salt, black pepper, and any additional seasoning that you desire and gently toss until every piece is well-coated.Olive oil, Salt and black pepper, to taste
Air fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 425ºF (220ºC). Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray, then add the fries in a single layer. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown, flipping halfway through
- Important: If your air fryer basket doesn't have a non-stick coating, it's best to add a piece of parchment paper to prevent the fries from sticking.
- These fries taste best when they're piping hot so serve them right away! The texture changes once they cool down.
Oven baked
- Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Add the fries in a single layer, giving them enough space in between. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
- These fries taste best when they're piping hot so serve them right away! The texture changes once they cool down.
Notes
*How to make polenta from scratch
Add 3 ⅓ cups of water and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to a large pot and bring to a boil.
Turn the heat to low and slowly add 1 cup of quick-cooking cornmeal while whisking constantly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the polenta thickens.
Remove from the heat and stir 1 tablespoon of olive oil (optional, for moisture and flavor).
Pour the mixture into a baking tray lined with parchment paper and smooth it out evenly. Let it cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then cover with plastic wrap and transfer to the fridge until ready to use.
Storage
Fridge: Although polenta frita is best served fresh, you can still store the leftovers in an airtight container for 4-5 days in the fridge.
Freezer: Transfer leftovers to a freezer-safe container in an even layer and freeze for up to 3 months (and sometimes longer).
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 75kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.03g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 27mg | Fiber: 0.4g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 40IU | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 0.2mg