Sgagliozza with a Twist

Ingredients

• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• 1 cup (160g) cornmeal 1 cup (160g) cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the salt.
2. 2.
   Gradually whisk in the cornmeal, ensuring there are no lumps.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, for about 10 minutes or until thickened.
4. 4.
   Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the dried oregano, dried thyme, black pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese.
5. 5.
   Pour the mixture into a greased square baking dish and spread it evenly. Allow it to cool and set for about 1 hour.
6. 6.
   Once set, cut the polenta into rectangular slices or desired shapes.
7. 7.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
8. 8.
   Fry the polenta slices in batches until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
9. 9.
   Remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
10. 10.
    Serve the crispy polenta fritters warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornmeal — Use fine or medium-grind cornmeal for a smoother texture in the fritters.
• Parmesan cheese — For a stronger cheese flavor, use aged Parmesan. Grate it finely to ensure it incorporates well into the polenta mixture.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor, serve the fritters with a side of marinara sauce or a garlic-infused aioli.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the fritters.
• For a healthier alternative, bake the polenta slices in the oven instead of frying them.

Serving advice

Serve the crispy polenta fritters as an appetizer or snack. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Presentation advice

Arrange the fritters on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to add a pop of color. Serve them warm to showcase their crispy exterior.