Creamy Polenta
Wonderfully smooth and rich, this creamy polenta is a perfect canvas for your favorite sauces or grilled vegetables. Made without salt, its mild corn flavor shines through, enhanced by a touch of butter and fresh pepper.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Boil the broth
- b.Pour the low-sodium vegetable broth into a medium saucepan.
- c.Bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the polenta
- b.Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
- c.Gradually whisk in the cornmeal in a slow, steady stream. Whisking constantly prevents lumps from forming.
- d.Continue to whisk until the polenta begins to thicken, about 2-3 minutes.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Simmer until creamy
- b.Switch from a whisk to a wooden spoon.
- c.Cook on low heat, stirring every few minutes to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- d.Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until it's thick, creamy, and the grains are tender.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Finish and serve
- b.Remove the saucepan from the heat.
- c.Stir in the unsalted butter and freshly ground black pepper until the butter is completely melted and incorporated.
- d.Taste and add more pepper if desired.
- e.Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the creamiest texture, whisk the polenta into the boiling liquid in a very slow, thin stream.
- 2Don't walk away! Stirring frequently is key to preventing lumps and ensuring the bottom doesn't scorch.
- 3If the polenta becomes too thick, you can stir in a splash of warm water or more low-sodium broth to reach your desired consistency.
- 4Leftover polenta will solidify in the fridge. You can slice and pan-fry it the next day for a delicious new dish.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace the unsalted butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute for a fully vegan version.
healthyHealthy
Use water instead of broth and omit the butter to reduce fat and calories. Add flavor with herbs like rosemary or thyme.
quickQuick
Use instant polenta instead of regular cornmeal. It will cook in about 5-7 minutes, making this a very fast side dish.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Stir in a tablespoon of nutritional yeast at the end to give it a cheesy flavor without adding sodium.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Heart Healthy
This recipe is made without any added salt, making it an excellent choice for a low-sodium diet to support cardiovascular health.
Good Source of Energy
Cornmeal provides complex carbohydrates, which offer a steady release of energy to keep you feeling full and energized.
Naturally Gluten-Free
Polenta is made from corn, making it a naturally gluten-free grain suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, polenta can be very healthy. It's a whole grain that provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and is naturally gluten-free. This no-salt version is excellent for heart health and managing blood pressure.