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The Best Air Fryer Polenta

Polenta is like that friend who shows up to the party and effortlessly lights up the room. It’s comfort food that somehow feels fancy at the same time.

We often find ourselves craving it on those chilly evenings when we want something warm and comforting.

Let’s be real; polenta doesn’t require Michelin-star skills to whip up. It can be a quick side or star in its own right. We love smothering it in our favorite sauces or adding a sprinkle of cheese on top.

This dish is all about simplicity, flexibility, and good vibes. If you haven’t given it a shot yet, get ready to be pleasantly surprised by how easy and delicious it is!

air fryer polenta

Ingredients for Air Fryer Polenta

Gather up these simple goodies – you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to whip up some tasty polenta:

  • Polenta: About a cup of dry polenta (cornmeal) is what you need; this is your base!
  • Water or broth: Use about four cups for cooking the polenta; broth adds a lovely punch of flavour!
  • Salt: Just a pinch to elevate those flavours.
  • Olive oil: A few tablespoons works great to help that crispy outside.
  • Parmesan cheese (optional): Because let’s be real, cheese makes everything better!
  • Herbs and spices: Get creative with garlic powder, Italian herbs, or even a sprinkle of cayenne for a kick!

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Polenta

Getting that crispy polenta just right involves a few handy tips:

  • Cook it right: Make sure to cook the polenta until it’s thick and creamy; don’t rush this step or you’ll end up with a soggy mess!
  • Let it chill: Once cooked, spread it out in a greased dish and let it cool down in the fridge – this helps it firm up for that lovely texture later.
  • Cut it right: Slice your chilled polenta into even pieces; this way, you’ll get that uniform crispiness!
  • Don’t skip the oil: A good drizzle of olive oil on the polenta bites before air frying is key to that golden crust.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to jazz up your polenta with these fun twists:

  • Spicy Cajun Polenta: Mix in some cajun seasoning to elevate those flavours and add heat!
  • Herbed Polenta: Stir in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme once it’s cooked for a fragrant touch.
  • Cheesy Garlic Polenta: Mix grated cheese (like cheddar) and garlic powder into the warm polenta before spreading it out to cool for a decadent treat!

Serving Suggestions

Now that your air fryer has worked its magic, here are some tasty ways to enjoy your crispy polenta:

  • As a side dish: Pair it with your air fryer pork belly or any grilled protein; it’s a match made in foodie heaven!
  • With a sauce: Drizzle some marinara or pesto on top and call it dinner!
  • Polenta fries: Serve them with a side of spicy ketchup or a tangy dip for a fun appetizer.
air fryer polenta

The Best Air Fryer Polenta

A delicious and easy way to make crispy polenta in your air fryer. Perfect as a side dish, or even enjoyed by itself with some toppings for a quick snack.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 234 kcal

Equipment

  • Air-fryer
  • saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Cutting board
  • Cooling Dish

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup dry polenta
  • 4 cups water or broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese optional
  • 1 teaspoon your choice of herbs and spices to taste

Instructions
 

  • Cook the polenta: In a saucepan, bring water (or broth) to a boil, stir in polenta, and add salt. Reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently until thick.
  • Let it chill: Pour cooked polenta into a greased dish and spread it out. Let it cool in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
  • Cut it: Once chilled, cut the polenta into bite-sized pieces or fries.
  • Season: Drizzle olive oil over the pieces and sprinkle with any additional herbs or cheese if using.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 400°F.
  • Air fry: Place polenta pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.
  • Serve up: Enjoy your crispy polenta as a delightful side or snack!

Notes

  • For added crunch, you can dust the polenta pieces with some cornstarch before air frying.
  • If you like things spicy, consider adding red pepper flakes to your polenta before chilling it!

Nutrition

Serving: 4ouncesCalories: 234kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 6gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 4mgSodium: 694mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 1gSugar: 0.3gVitamin A: 134IUCalcium: 82mgIron: 0.5mg
Keyword air fryer recipes, easy recipes, easy sides, polenta
Did you make this recipe?Mention @CooksCrafter or tag #CooksCrafter!
5 from 1 vote
Recipe Rating




William

Wednesday 31st of July 2024

Even my picky eaters enjoy these air fryer meals!

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