Polenta party nibbles

Polenta is one of the most popular dishes in Italy today. For hundreds of years it was known as a food for peasants, but now it is so popular that you can find it on the menu at exclusive restaurants!

Modern polenta is made out of boiled cornmeal (before corn was first brought to Italy from America, wheat was used instead).

This fried polenta is easy to make - but remember, you'll need an adult’s help for frying. This dish makes an ideal snack for your next birthday party!

How to make

1. Put the polenta into a large pan with the water, salt and pepper, bring to the boil and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the water is nearly all soaked up and the polenta is soft. You will need to keep stirring it!

2. Add the parmesan cheese and mix well.

3. Spoon the mixture onto a floured surface and shape into a thin rectangle, about 1 centimetre thick.

4. Leave it to cool down (this can take a while), then cut it into thin strips.

5. Get an adult to help you heat the oil in a frying pan. Fry the strips, turning them over until all the sides are brown.

Drain the polenta nibbles on kitchen towel and keep them warm until they are ready to be served. Serve alone, or with vegetables or a yummy dip.

Polenta was part of the daily menu in Roman Britain - find out more about life in Roman Britain

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