Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsPrima ItaliaFried Polenta (v) Recipe

Fried Polenta (v) Recipe

Inspired by Prima Italia
Time1h
Serves4

Polenta coated with panko bread crumbs and served with house marinara

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Ingredients

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Polenta

Breading

Marinara Sauce

Method

Prepare Polenta

  1. 1

    Cook the Polenta

    In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 tsp of salt to the boiling water.

  2. 2

    Add Polenta

    Gradually whisk in 1 cup of polenta, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Reduce the heat to low.

  3. 3

    Simmer

    Continue to cook the polenta for about 30 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan. Stir in 1 tbs olive oil.

  4. 4

    Set Aside to Cool

    Once cooked, pour the polenta into a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Allow it to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.

Prepare Marinara Sauce

  1. 5

    Sauté Garlic

    In a saucepan, heat 1 tbs olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

  2. 6

    Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

    Stir in 2 cups of canned crushed tomatoes, 1 tsp dried oregano, and 1 tsp salt. Bring to a simmer.

  3. 7

    Finish Sauce

    Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add 1 tbs of chopped fresh basil before serving.

Bread and Fry Polenta

  1. 8

    Prepare Breading Stations

    Set up three bowls: one with 1 cup all-purpose flour, one with 2 beaten eggs, and one with 1 cup panko bread crumbs. Season flour and bread crumbs with salt and pepper to taste.

  2. 9

    Cut Polenta

    After the polenta has firmed up, cut it into desired shapes (e.g., squares or sticks).

  3. 10

    Bread the Polenta

    Dredge each piece of polenta in flour, dip in the beaten eggs, and then coat with panko bread crumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.

  4. 11

    Fry Polenta

    In a large skillet, heat enough oil to cover the bottom over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded polenta pieces until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.

  5. 12

    Drain Excess Oil

    Remove the fried polenta from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

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