Description
A simple and delicious recipe for crispy air-fried polenta squares made with quick-cook polenta, parmesan, and butter. This dish is perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side, offering a golden crunchy exterior with a creamy, cheesy interior.
Ingredients
Scale
Polenta Base
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for the tin
- 500ml vegetable or chicken stock
- 125g quick-cook polenta
- 40g parmesan or vegetarian alternative, grated
- 25g butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Tin: Oil and line a swiss roll tin (approximately 31cm x 23cm) with baking parchment to prevent sticking when pouring in the polenta mixture.
- Cook the Polenta: Place a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and stock, then bring to a simmer. Slowly pour in the polenta while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring for 10-15 minutes until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan.
- Add Cheese and Butter: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated parmesan and butter until fully melted and incorporated into the polenta for a rich, creamy texture.
- Set the Polenta: Pour the cooked polenta into the prepared swiss roll tin, smoothing the surface. Allow it to cool and set at room temperature for 1 hour until firm enough to cut into pieces.
- Cut into Pieces: Once set, cut the polenta into 16-24 squares, depending on your preferred size.
- Air Fry the Polenta: Arrange the polenta pieces in a single layer in the air fryer tray. Cook at 200°C (392°F) for 15-20 minutes until the pieces are golden and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite toppings or dips. The polenta can be kept chilled for up to three days before air frying, and cooked polenta pieces will keep for one day in an airtight container.
Notes
- You can use either vegetable or chicken stock depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- For a vegetarian option, use vegetarian parmesan or a suitable cheese alternative.
- Make sure to stir the polenta constantly during cooking to avoid lumps and achieve the right consistency.
- The air fryer gives the polenta a delightful crispness without needing to deep fry.
- These polenta squares can be customized with various toppings like tomato sauce, herbs, or sautéed mushrooms.
- Store uncooked polenta squares in the refrigerator for up to three days before air frying.
- Cooked polenta squares are best eaten the same day for maximum crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: polenta, air fryer polenta, crispy polenta squares, vegetarian appetizer, quick polenta recipe, Italian side dish
