Guide: polenta

Polenta is very common in my country. It's easy to make and all you need for it is cornmeal, water and salt. Cornmeal is a coarse flower made from corn.

Polenta can be made thicker or thinner - depending on the type of cornmeal But mainly depending on how long and in how much water it's boiled. You need 4 cups of water for 1 cup of cornmeal. It's better to use a ceramic pot - as it won't stick to it.

Bring the water to boil. Don't forget to throw in a pinch of salt.

When the water starts boiling turn the heat low and start pouring the cornmeal, slowly, and stir continuously with a whisk (balloon whisks are the best for this).

After the cornmeal is incorporated stir a few more times, cover it partially with a lid and let it boil for 2 to 5 more minutes (depending on how thick you want it).

If you like it really thin start with a bit more water.
You can pour it in a big enough bowl and from there everyone can serve himself. We like to eat it while it's hot, mixed with some grated cheese and a bit of sour cream. You can let it cool, cut it into slices and fry it in a bit of butter - it can be used instead of bread.
Polenta is also the base for some other dishes and it can be used as a side dish.

Ingredients:

1 cup cornmeal;

4 - 4 and 1/2 cups of water;

1 teaspoon of salt.