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Polenta, a staple dish hailing from Italy, has long captured the hearts and palates of food lovers around the globe. Its versatility allows it to be enjoyed in various ways—creamy, fried, or baked—making it a beloved comfort food that's perfect for any meal. In this article, we will delve into the delicious world of Peppery Garlic Parmesan Polenta, a dish that elevates the humble cornmeal into a gourmet experience. The combination of peppery notes, aromatic garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese creates a savory flavor profile that is both comforting and sophisticated.

Peppery Garlic Parmesan Polenta

Explore the comforting world of Peppery Garlic Parmesan Polenta, a delightful dish that transforms humble cornmeal into a gourmet experience. This creamy polenta, infused with aromatic garlic and rich Parmesan, offers a savory flavor that's perfect for any meal. Whether enjoyed on its own or topped with roasted veggies or grilled meats, this dish is sure to impress. Discover its roots in Italian cuisine, recipe tips, and serving suggestions for a truly satisfying culinary journey.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup yellow cornmeal (polenta)

4 cups vegetable broth

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (adjust for desired spice level)

1/2 teaspoon salt (can be adjusted to taste)

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Optional: Red pepper flakes for an extra kick

Instructions
 

Prepare the Broth: In a large saucepan, pour in the vegetable broth and place over medium heat. Allow it to come to a gentle simmer. For enhanced flavor, add a pinch of salt.

    Mix the Polenta: Gradually whisk in the yellow cornmeal to the simmering broth. Make sure to stir continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5 minutes.

      Add Garlic and Butter: Once the polenta has thickened and starts to pull away from the sides of the saucepan, add in the minced garlic and unsalted butter. Stir constantly for an additional 2-3 minutes until the garlic is aromatic and the butter has fully melted.

        Incorporate Cheese and Season: Remove the saucepan from heat and fold in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until the cheese is melted and fully blended into the polenta. Season with freshly cracked black pepper and taste to adjust salt as needed. For an extra spicy dimension, add in a few red pepper flakes.

          Serve: Transfer the creamy peppery garlic Parmesan polenta into bowls. Sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley to enhance both color and flavor.

            Optional Additions: Feel free to top with extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to elevate the dish's taste profile. This polenta is a fantastic accompaniment to sautéed vegetables, grilled meats, or a rich, savory tomato sauce.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | Serves 4