Crispy Sesame Polenta Fries with Zesty Lemon Herb Dip

Ingredients

• •1 cup yellow polenta (cornmeal)
• •3 cups water
• •1 teaspoon salt
• •1 tablespoon olive oil
• •1 tablespoon sesame seeds (white or black)
• •1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• •1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• •1 tablespoon cornstarch
• •2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying or baking)
• •1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• •1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• •1 tablespoon lemon juice
• •1 teaspoon lemon zest
• •1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• •1 teaspoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• •Salt to taste
• •Pepper to taste

Instructions

1. 1

   In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil.

2. 2

   Gradually whisk in the polenta, stirring continuously to avoid lumps, and reduce heat to low.

3. 3

   Cook the polenta, stirring frequently, until thick and smooth (about 10 minutes).

4. 4

   Stir in olive oil, sesame seeds, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until well combined.

5. 5

   Pour the cooked polenta into a lined or greased 8x8-inch baking dish, smoothing the surface, and let it cool completely.

6. 6

   Once set, cut the polenta into fry-shaped sticks.

7. 7

   Lightly coat the polenta sticks with cornstarch for extra crispiness.

8. 8

   Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat and fry the polenta sticks in batches until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side, or bake them at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

9. 9

   To make the dip, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth.

10. 10

    Serve the crispy sesame polenta fries warm with the zesty lemon herb dip on the side.