Creamy MICROWAVE Polenta

....PART ONE TO A DELICIOUS MEAL....
...Part Two Tomorrow...

These cold fall days have had me in the mood for a warm hearty meal. With some family raised beef in the freezer, short ribs seemed fitting for the mood I have been in. Anyways when I think short ribs I think soft polenta to serve it on. I grew up eating polenta in my Swiss family, Even included it on the menu at my own wedding. Its a delicious and inexpensive but above all CLASSY side dish. Years ago in Switzerland it was considered peasant food because its JUST corn meal and water. Thats it. There is so much you can add to it to make it a jazzy amazing dish. 

Here is a quick easy way to whip up some polenta in your home in short order.

Want a spoon? fork? you hands? Go for it! Don't blame you!! 

Creamy Microwave Polenta

2 Cups cornmeal

7  Cups water

1 Tablespoon olive oil

2 Teaspoons salt

4 Tablespoons butter

1/2-3/4 Cups shredded cheese (Any kind your prefer, parmesan, cheddar, jack, gouda)

Combine all ingredients except for butter and cheese in a large glass or stoneware dish that leaves enough space for water to bubble up without overflowing. Cover tightly with saran wrap and microwave on high for 14 minutes.

Carefully uncover dish and stir your mixture. Should still be watery but beginning to thicken. Add a splash more water if your mixture is clumpy or stiff. After stirring re-cover and microwave on high for another 12-14 minutes.

Again, carefully uncover and stir. Polenta should be thickened but not stiff. Add butter and cheese and stir in. Taste and add anything more of anything that you desire.

Serve as a side dish or under PART TWO to this amazing meal.

Click here to print this recipe!