Polenta Fries with Spicy Marinara

Ingredients

For the Polenta Fries:

• 1 cup polenta (cornmeal)

• 4 cups water

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 tbsp butter

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying or baking)

For the Spicy Marinara:

• 1 cup marinara sauce

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1 tsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Polenta:

   • Bring water and salt to a boil in a saucepan.

   • Gradually whisk in polenta, reduce heat, and cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring frequently until thick.

   • Stir in butter and Parmesan.

2. Shape and Chill:

   • Pour cooked polenta into a greased baking dish, about ½ inch thick.

   • Let cool until firm, about 1 hour (or refrigerate for faster setting).

   • Cut into fry-shaped sticks.

3. Cook the Fries:

   • Option 1 – Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss fries with olive oil and bake 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp.

   • Option 2 – Pan-Fry: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry until golden and crispy on all sides.

4. Prepare Spicy Marinara:

   • Heat olive oil in a small saucepan, sauté garlic for 30 seconds.

   • Add marinara and red pepper flakes. Simmer 5 minutes and season with salt and pepper.

5. Serve:

   • Serve polenta fries hot with spicy marinara for dipping.

   • Optional: sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh basil.