Description
This creamy pumpkin polenta is a comforting and flavorful dish combining the smooth texture of polenta with the rich, earthy taste of pumpkin puree and the savory sharpness of Pecorino Romano cheese. Perfect as a side or a hearty vegetarian main, this recipe is easy to prepare and delivers a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Polenta Base
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup yellow polenta or medium ground cornmeal
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Additions
- 1/2 cup canned or homemade pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- Pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
- Heat Water: Bring the salted water to a boil over high heat in a heavy-bottomed 2 or 3 quart pot to ensure even cooking and prevent scorching.
- Add Polenta: Slowly pour the polenta into the boiling water while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming and to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Simmer and Add Butter: Reduce the heat to a very low simmer, add the butter, and continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly to begin the creamy texture.
- Cook Covered: Cover the pot and let the polenta cook gently for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking and burning on the bottom of the pot.
- Test for Doneness: Once the polenta is soft and tender, it’s ready; if it’s still gritty, cook for a few more minutes until the desired texture is achieved.
- Add Pumpkin and Cheese: Stir in the pumpkin puree, grated Pecorino Romano, and a pinch of nutmeg to incorporate flavor and creaminess throughout the polenta.
- Season and Serve: Taste the finished polenta and adjust salt as needed, then serve warm as a deliciously creamy side or main dish.
Notes
- Makes approximately 4 cups of creamy pumpkin polenta, serving about 6 people.
- You can substitute Pecorino Romano with Parmesan if preferred.
- For a vegan version, replace butter and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- Stirring frequently towards the end of cooking prevents the polenta from sticking or burning.
- If the polenta thickens too much after resting, stir in a splash of warm water or broth to loosen it.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2/3 cup
- Calories: 133 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 275 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 14 mg
