Easy Polenta with Tomato Sauce

Ingredients and Weight:

• Fine polenta: 500g (1.1 lbs)
• Water: 1.5 liters (6 cups)
• Salt: to taste
• Olive oil: 4 tablespoons
• Onion: 1 large (150g / 5.3 oz), chopped
• Garlic: 3 cloves (15g / 0.5 oz), minced
• Crushed tomatoes: 1 can (800g / 28 oz)
• Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
• Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
• Sugar: 1 tablespoon (optional)
• Parmesan cheese: 100g (3.5 oz), grated

Preparation Time:

• 15 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 1 hour

Difficulty Level:

• 1/5 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Bring the water to a boil in a large pot and add salt to taste.
2. Gradually whisk in the polenta until it forms a thick paste.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the polenta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
4. While the polenta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a separate large skillet.
5. Add the onion and cook until softened.
6. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
7. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bring to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
9. Spread the polenta into an 8x8-inch baking dish and top with the tomato sauce.
10. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve warm.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 475 per serving
• Carbohydrates: 85g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 15g
• Sodium: 1000mg

Dish Characteristics:

• Hearty and comforting
• Creamy polenta with a flavorful tomato sauce
• Perfect for a casual dinner or as a side dish
• Can be topped with additional cheese, herbs, or vegetables

User Comments:

• "This was a delicious and easy recipe to follow. The polenta was creamy and the tomato sauce was flavorful. I will definitely make this again!" - Sarah
• "I love this polenta recipe! It's so versatile and I can add different ingredients to change the flavor profile. I've made it with roasted vegetables, cheese, and even sausage." - John
• "This is my go-to recipe when I'm looking for a quick and easy comfort food. It's always a hit with my family." - Mary

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to stir the polenta constantly while cooking to prevent it from burning or sticking to the pot.
• If the polenta becomes too thick, add more water 1/4 cup at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
• The tomato sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For a richer flavor, use chicken or beef broth instead of water to cook the polenta.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.