THIS CAFE LIFE
Creamy Polenta
Creamy polenta is a simple, slow-cooked dish made by gently simmering cornmeal in stock or water until the grains soften and thicken into a smooth, spoonable texture. Finished with butter and Parmesan, it becomes rich and lightly savory without feeling heavy. It serves as a versatile base for braised meats, roasted vegetables, mushrooms, or sauces, and is an equally comforting side dish on its own.
Prep Time:
5 Minutes
Cook Time:
25 Minutes
Yield:
Serves 6
Ingredients
4 C. Water
1 C. Milk
1 C. Cornmeal (coarse or medium)
3 T. Butter
½ C. Parmesan Cheese (grated, plus more for serving)
2 t. Fresh Rosemary (chopped, or parsley, optional)
Featured in this recipe: Wooden Spatula · Saucepan · Microplane
A long-handled wooden spatula is essential when cooking polenta or risotto, allowing you to stir continuously while keeping the grains moving so they cook evenly and don’t settle or stick to the bottom of the pot. The flat edge reaches cleanly into the corners of the pan, helping maintain a smooth texture while protecting nonstick and enameled surfaces.
A microplane zester creates fine, feather-light shavings that release bright citrus oils, delicate garlic, fresh ginger, and hard cheeses with exceptional control. It delivers clean, consistent results in seconds — the difference between coarse grating and a refined finish.
For steady simmering and stirring →
Step 1 — Heat the liquid
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, milk, and kosher salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Step 2 — Whisk in the cornmeal
Slowly add the cornmeal in a steady stream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Reduce the heat to low.
Step 3 — Cook the polenta
Continue cooking over low heat, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon or spatula, until the polenta thickens and the grains are tender, about 20–25 minutes. If the mixture becomes too thick before the grains are fully cooked, stir in a small amount of additional warm water or milk.
Step 4 — Finish
Remove from heat and stir in the butter, grated Parmesan, and chopped rosemary (or parsley), mixing until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5 — Serve
Serve warm, topped with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Sides to Complete any Meal
A well-built main deserves equally thoughtful accompaniments. These side dishes focus on structure, flavor layering, and textures that round out the meal without competing for attention:
• Sweet Potato Spiral — layered rounds tender inside with lightly caramelized edges
• Potatoes Gratin — delicately sliced potatoes baked in cream - classic golden finish
• Mushroom Risotto — slow-cooked Arborio rice with deep mushroom flavor
• Cowboy Stuffing — hearty, savory stuffing with herbs, aromatics, and cornbread
Prepared individually or as a group, these sides bring warmth, balance, and substance to everything from seasonal gatherings to everyday dinners.
→ Browse Additional Side Dishes
→ See the Kitchen Tools We Use
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