Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup of polenta
- 4 cups of water
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 Italian sausages
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and slowly pour in 1 cup of polenta while stirring constantly with a wooden spoon.
2. Reduce heat to low and continue stirring for 20-30 minutes until the polenta is thick and creamy.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
4. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 4 Italian sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.
5. Remove the sausages from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, sauté 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until softened, about 5 minutes.
7. Add 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 10 minutes.
8. Slice the sausages and add them to the tomato sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
9. To serve, spoon the polenta onto a plate and top with the sausage and tomato sauce.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
Polenta: Low heat
Sausages: Medium heat
Tomato sauce: Simmer
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 22g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Polenta can be substituted with cornmeal.
- Italian sausages can be substituted with any type of sausage.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with any type of grated cheese.
- Diced tomatoes can be substituted with fresh tomatoes.
Variations:
- Add chopped bell peppers and mushrooms to the tomato sauce.
- Use spicy Italian sausages for a kick of heat.
- Top with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Stir the polenta constantly to prevent clumps.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the sausages from sticking.
- Add a splash of red wine to the tomato sauce for added depth of flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve on a large platter with fresh herbs and grated cheese sprinkled on top.
Garnishes:
Fresh herbs and grated cheese.
Pairings:
Serve with a side salad and crusty bread.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
- Grilled asparagus
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the polenta is too thick, add more water.
- If the tomato sauce is too thin, simmer for a few more minutes to thicken.
Food Safety Advice:
- Cook the sausages to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food History:
Polenta is a traditional Italian dish made from boiled cornmeal. It originated in Northern Italy and has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries.
Flavor Profiles:
The creamy and savory polenta pairs perfectly with the spicy and tangy tomato sauce and the rich and flavorful Italian sausages.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve hot with a side salad and crusty bread for a hearty and satisfying meal.
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Region: Italian