Here's a savory and comforting recipe for Polenta with Mushrooms:
Ingredients
For the Polenta:
1 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)
4 cups water or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Mushroom Topping:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Polenta:
Boil the Liquid:
In a medium saucepan, bring the water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the salt.
Cook the Polenta:
Gradually whisk in the polenta, reducing the heat to low. Continue whisking until the polenta starts to thicken, about 2-3 minutes.
Cook the polenta, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, until it is thick and creamy, about 30-40 minutes. If the polenta becomes too thick, add a bit more water or broth to achieve the desired consistency.
Finish the Polenta:
Stir in the butter or olive oil and grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep warm.
Prepare the Mushroom Topping:
Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cook the Mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 10-15 minutes.
Stir in the thyme leaves and cook for another minute.
Deglaze the Pan (Optional):
If using, add the white wine to the skillet and cook until it is mostly evaporated, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Season:
Season the mushrooms with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
Assemble the Dish:
Spoon the creamy polenta onto plates or into bowls.
Top with the sautéed mushrooms.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Enjoy your delicious Polenta with Mushrooms!