Chestnut Polenta With Pancetta Balsamic Vinegar And Ricotta Pattona Recipes

CHESTNUT POLENTA

Steps:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Slowly add the flour into the pot in a steady stream until level with the water. With a spoon, create a well in the center. Allow to cook for approximately 10 minutes and then stir for an additional 5 minutes until you have a creamy polenta-like texture.
• The polenta will thicken and bubble resembling a porridge-like consistency. If there are any lumps break them up and continue to stir until creamy.
• Serve the polenta with grilled sausages or creamy ricotta cheese.

CHESTNUT POLENTA WITH PANCETTA, BALSAMIC VINEGAR, AND RICOTTA: PATTONA

Steps:

• Boil the water in a large saucepan and add salt. Once boiling, remove from the heat and pour into a copper pot. Add the flour and, with a wooden paddle, create a hole in the middle of the mixture so that the water begins to bubble over. Place on the stove and simmer slowly for 40 minutes.
• Remove from the heat and beat vigorously with the paddle/wooden spoon until the polenta forms a smooth, firm consistency. Place the mixture on a wooden board, and shape into a large ball with your hands (cold water will help keep your hands cool). Allow to cool for 30 minutes.
• In the meantime, cut the pancetta into small cubes and saute in a frying pan with the olive oil. Once the pancetta has turned a golden brown, splash the balsamic vinegar into the pan and allow the pancetta to caramelize with the sweet vinegar. It is now ready to serve with the polenta.
• Assemble the dish onto a plate: a wedge of polenta, pancetta and a fresh slice of ricotta cheese. The flavors will balance each other perfectly and all you need is a generous drizzle of olive oil and thyme and marjoram to garnish.

CREAMY POLENTA WITH BALSAMIC GLAZE

Steps:

• In medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add 1 cup cream, milk and salt. Bring to a low simmer. Gradually whisk in cornmeal. Cook and stir for 3 minutes. , Pour polenta into a 3-quart slow cooker coated with cooking spray. Cook, covered, on low for 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, bring vinegar and sugar to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, until reduced to 1/3 cup. Just before serving, stir cheese and the remaining cream and butter into polenta. To serve, drizzle with balsamic glaze.