These baked polenta fries are a delightful and healthier alternative to traditional fries. Made from creamy polenta and baked to a golden crisp, they make for a perfect snack or side dish.
This Baked Polenta Fries Recipe is simple to follow and can be easily customized with your favorite seasonings or dips. Enjoy these tasty snacks at your next gathering or as a satisfying treat.
Easy Baked Polenta Fries Recipe
These polenta fries are made by cooking polenta until creamy, spreading it out to set, and then cutting it into fry shapes before baking. The result is a crunchy exterior with a soft interior, perfect for dipping in sauces. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 cup polenta (cornmeal)
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
- Dipping sauce of choice (e.g., marinara, aioli)
Instructions
- Prepare the Polenta: In a large pot, bring water or broth to a boil. Add salt and slowly whisk in the polenta. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until thickened (about 15-20 minutes).
- Set the Polenta: Pour the cooked polenta into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Let it cool and set for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the Fries: Once the polenta is set, turn it out onto a cutting board and cut it into fry shapes.
- Season and Bake: Place the polenta fries on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
