Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the rustic kitchens of Italy! This mouthwatering Polenta with Red Sauce is more than just a meal - it's a symphony of creamy cornmeal and vibrant tomato sauce that promises to become your new favorite comfort dish. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will have you feeling like a true Italian chef in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Polenta
- Water
- Salt
- Canned tomatoes
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water.
- Gradually whisk in 1 cup of polenta cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Reduce heat to low and continue stirring.
- Cook the polenta for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. The polenta should become thick and smooth with a creamy consistency.
- While the polenta is cooking, prepare the red sauce. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a separate skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes, breaking them down with a wooden spoon. Simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season the red sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the polenta is creamy and smooth, remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish.
- Pour the hot red sauce over the polenta, spreading it evenly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Whisk Constantly: The key to smooth, lump-free polenta is continuous whisking when adding cornmeal to boiling water. This ensures a creamy, silky texture.
- Low and Slow: Cook polenta on low heat and stir frequently to prevent sticking and achieve that perfect, velvety consistency.
- Liquid Ratio Matters: Use a 4:1 water to cornmeal ratio for the ideal creamy texture.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh basil and high-quality canned tomatoes for the most authentic and flavorful red sauce.
- Serve Immediately: Polenta sets quickly, so serve it hot right after cooking for the best taste and texture.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to the polenta or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
