Crispy Polenta Bites with Spicy Tomato Jam and Fresh Basil

Ingredients

• •1 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)
• •3 cups water
• •1/2 teaspoon salt
• •2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
• •1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• •1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
• •1 tablespoon olive oil (for tomato jam)
• •1 clove garlic, minced
• •1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• •1 tablespoon honey
• •1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• •Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• •Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. 1

   In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta and lower the heat to a simmer.

2. 2

   Cook the polenta, stirring frequently, for about 15 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese and salt.

3. 3

   Pour the cooked polenta onto a greased baking sheet or parchment-lined tray. Spread to about 1/2-inch thickness and allow to cool completely.

4. 4

   Once cooled, cut the polenta into bite-sized squares or rounds.

5. 5

   Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Fry the polenta pieces in batches until golden and crispy, about 2 minutes per side.

6. 6

   To make the spicy tomato jam, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

7. 7

   Stir in the diced cherry tomatoes, honey, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency.

8. 8

   To assemble, top each crispy polenta bite with a spoonful of spicy tomato jam and a fresh basil leaf.

9. 9

   Serve immediately and enjoy!