Crispy Polenta Fries with Zesty Lemon Hummus and Herb Salsa

Ingredients

• •1 cup polenta (cornmeal)
• •3 cups vegetable stock
• •1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• •1 tablespoon butter
• •1 tablespoon olive oil
• •1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• •3 tablespoons tahini
• •1 small garlic clove
• •2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• •1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• •1/4 cup water (for hummus)
• •1 medium lemon (for zesting)
• •1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves
• •1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• •1 tablespoon capers, drained
• •1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• •1/4 cup olive oil (for herb salsa)
• •Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. 1

   In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable stock to a boil. Slowly whisk in the polenta, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring, until the polenta thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

2. 2

   Remove the polenta from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, butter, and a pinch of salt. Pour the cooked polenta into a greased 9x9-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Let it cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

3. 3

   Once the polenta is firm, cut it into fry-shaped sticks. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the polenta sticks on the sheet, brush with olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

4. 4

   While the fries bake, prepare the lemon hummus. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, cumin, water, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with additional water if needed, and season to taste.

5. 5

   For the herb salsa, finely chop the parsley, cilantro, and capers. In a small bowl, mix the herbs and capers with red wine vinegar, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.

6. 6

   Once the polenta fries are ready, arrange them on a serving plate. Serve alongside the lemon hummus and herb salsa for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy your crispy, zesty, and herby masterpiece!