Stovetop Creamy Polenta

Name: Stovetop Creamy Polenta
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups low-sodium broth; any type1 cup polenta (also known as corn grits)¼ cup low-fat or nonfat milk (optional)¼ teaspoon each salt and black pepper (optional)

Ground corn is cooked slowly until creamy and flavorful. Similar to grits, it can be topped many ways for a delicious meal.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Makes: 4 servings
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

4 cups low-sodium broth, any type
1 cup polenta (also known as corn grits)
¼ cup low-fat or nonfat milk (optional)
¼ teaspoon each salt and black pepper (optional)

Directions

Wash hands with soap and water.
In a large saucepan, bring the broth to a boil. Turn heat to medium and slowly stir in the polenta. Keep stirring to avoid lumps. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes.
Turn the heat to low, cover the pan and cook for 20 minutes. Stir every 4 or 5 minutes until the polenta is thick and creamy. Stir in milk, salt and pepper, if desired.
Serve hot with topping of your choice (see Notes).
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

Top polenta with any sauce, stew or stir-fry and a sprinkle of cheese.
Try polenta topped with milk, fruit and chopped nuts for breakfast.
For creamier polenta, use 2 cups broth and 2 cups low-fat milk.
For cheesy polenta, stir in ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese at the end of cooking.
Enjoy leftover polenta: Refrigerate polenta in a cup. When solid, remove and cut into ½-inch rounds. In a lightly greased skillet on medium heat, cook slices until golden brown on each side. Serve as a side dish with eggs, greens or any meat, fish or poultry.