Polenta Fries with Spicy Marinara sauce
There’s something deeply satisfying about dipping crispy fries into a rich, tangy marinara sauce. And while potatoes usually steal the spotlight, I’m here to make a case for a new contender: polenta fries. Golden, crunchy on the outside, and creamy on the inside, they’re a delicious and wholesome alternative to traditional fries. Best of all? They’re completely vegan and gluten-free.
What is Polenta?
Polenta is a dish made from ground yellow cornmeal, traditionally simmered with water or broth until thick and creamy. It originated in Northern Italy and can be served soft like porridge or cooled until firm and then sliced, which makes it perfect for fries like these. In its uncooked form, polenta looks very similar to cornmeal. The main difference lies in texture: polenta is usually slightly coarser than standard cornmeal, giving it a more robust, hearty bite.
Why You’ll Love These Polenta Fries
- Crispy without deep frying. Just a simple bake (or air-fry!) and you’re good to go.
- Versatile flavor. Season them how you like, and dip them in anything from marinara to hummus or vegan aioli.
- Make-ahead friendly – You can prep the polenta in advance and fry up when ready.
How To Make These Polenta Fries
For these fries you’ll need to cook the polenta with vegetable broth and seasonings, stirring continuously until it becomes thick and smooth. Once cooked, spread the mixture into a parchment-lined baking dish, smoothing the top evenly, and let it cool in the fridge completely until firm. When set, slice the polenta into fry-shaped sticks, brush them lightly with oil, and bake or air-fry until they’re crisp and golden on the outside. Serve warm with spicy marinara sauce on the side and enjoy every perfectly dippable bite.
Ingredients for Polenta Fries with Spicy Marinara sauce
- 150 g polenta
- 600 ml vegetable broth
- 1 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 medium yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional)
- olive oil
- sea salt and black pepper
- 400 gr good quality chopped tinned tomatoes
- red pepper flakes
- 2 tsp red wine vinegar
- fresh basil
Also needed, a baking dish, baking paper, brush or spray bottle with olive oil, airfyer
Cooking time: 30 minuten (of which 15 min prep time)
Making Polenta Fries with Spicy Marinara sauce
1. Cook the Polenta
In a medium saucepan, bring the stock to a simmer. Slowly whisk in the polenta, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Lower the heat and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy.
2. Season the Mixture
Once the polenta is cooked, stir in 1 tsp oregano, dried basil, and onion powder. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed by adding salt and pepper.
3. Set and Chill
Pour the polenta into a parchment-lined square or rectangular dish (e.g. an 8×8 or similar). Spread it out evenly and smooth the top. Let it cool at room temperature for a bit, then transfer to the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until completely firm.
4. Slice into Fries
Once firm, remove from the dish and cut the polenta into fry-shaped sticks, about 1/2-inch thick.
5. Bake or Air-Fry
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the fries on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. Brush or spray lightly with olive oil.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway, or air-fry for 15–20 minutes, until golden and crispy on the outside.
6. Make the Marinara Sauce
Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until soft and just beginning to turn golden. Stir in the red pepper flakes and 1/2 tsp oregano and fry for 1 more minute.
Add the tomatoes (crush them by hand or with the back of a spoon if using whole tomatoes). Let the sauce simmer gently over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the red wine vinegar and stir.
Once the sauce has reduced slightly and the flavors have melded, season generously with salt and freshly ground pepper and some fresh basil leaves. Blend for a smoother texture if desired, or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.
7. Serve and Dip
Serve the polenta fries with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
I’d love to see your beautiful creations so don’t forget to tag me on Instagram of Facebook!
Maybe you’ll also like these Vegan Sausage Rolls.
