A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Herbed Polenta Cubes Recipe, Perfect for Air Frying
Polenta, a versatile and beloved staple in Italian cuisine, is celebrated for its creamy texture and comforting flavour. But did you know it can also be transformed into delightful crispy bites with the help of an air fryer? In this article, we'll explore how to make herbed polenta cubes that are a perfect blend of crunch and savoury goodness, complemented by aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
- 1 cup coarse polenta
- 4 cups of water or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Polenta
Begin by bringing the water or vegetable broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually add the polenta, stirring constantly with a whisk to prevent any lumps from forming. Reduce the heat to low and continue to stir, allowing the polenta to cook and thicken for about 15 to 20 minutes. If using, stir in the Parmesan cheese at this stage for an added depth of flavour.
Step 2: Season and Set
Once the polenta is cooked, remove it from the heat and stir in olive oil, salt, black pepper, and your choice of finely chopped fresh herbs. This is where you can customise the flavour of your polenta cubes, so feel free to experiment with different herb combinations.
Pour the polenta into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Allow it to cool at room temperature then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until it is firm and set. This step is crucial as it allows the polenta to hold its shape when cut into cubes.
Step 3: Cut into Cubes
Once the polenta is thoroughly set, turn it out onto a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut it into bite-sized cubes. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking in the air fryer.
Step 4: Air Fry the Polenta Cubes
Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 390°F). Arrange the polenta cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Air fry the cubes for about 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping on all sides. The result should be golden brown cubes with a deliciously crispy exterior and a tender interior.
Serving Suggestions
Herbed polenta cubes are incredibly versatile and can be served as an appetiser, side dish, or even a main course depending on your preference. They pair beautifully with a wide array of dips such as marinara sauce, pesto, or aioli. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or your favourite protein.
Tips & Tricks
- Herb Variations: Feel free to get creative with the herb combination. Basil, oregano, and chives can all add unique flavours to your polenta cubes.
- Cheese Options: While Parmesan is a classic choice, you can also try pecorino romano or a plant-based cheese alternative if you're keeping it vegan.
- Storage: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to retain their crispiness.
Now that you know how to make herbed polenta cubes perfect for air frying, you can easily whip them up for your next meal or gathering. Enjoy the delightful mix of crispy, aromatic textures and flavours that these small bites have to offer!