Antiguan Fungi
Antiguan Fungi is a comforting and staple cornmeal porridge, reminiscent of polenta but infused with the unique flavors of Antigua. It is traditionally cooked to a thick, creamy consistency, enriched with butter and cheese, and served as a versatile side dish.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 cups Water(Filtered water is recommended for best taste.)
- 1 cup Yellow cornmeal(Medium or fine grind is preferred. Avoid instant cornmeal.)
- 1 teaspoon Salt(Or to taste. Kosher or sea salt is ideal.)
- 2 tablespoons Butter(Unsalted butter is recommended to control saltiness.)
- 0.5 cup Grated cheese(Sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend of your favorite melting cheeses.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a medium saucepan (at least 2-quart capacity), combine the 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a rolling boil. Watch carefully to prevent boiling over.
- 2
Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low. Slowly and gradually whisk in the 1 cup of yellow cornmeal in a thin, steady stream. Continue whisking vigorously as you add it to prevent lumps from forming. The mixture will immediately begin to thicken.
- 3
Cover the saucepan and let the fungi simmer gently over low heat for 20-25 minutes. Stir frequently, scraping the bottom and sides of the pan with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The fungi is ready when it has thickened considerably, pulls away from the sides of the pan, and has a creamy, smooth consistency, similar to mashed potatoes. You should no longer taste a raw cornmeal flavor.
- 4
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the 2 tablespoons of butter and the 0.5 cup of grated cheese. Stir continuously until the butter is fully melted and the cheese is incorporated, creating a rich, glossy finish. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed.
- 5
Serve the Antiguan Fungi immediately while hot. It is traditionally enjoyed as a side dish alongside hearty stews, grilled or fried fish, or other savory main courses.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Constant stirring is crucial, especially in the initial stages of adding cornmeal and throughout the simmering process, to achieve a smooth, lump-free texture and prevent scorching.
- ✓For a thinner fungi, add a little more hot water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. For a thicker fungi, simmer for a few extra minutes.
- ✓Using a good quality, flavorful cheese will significantly enhance the taste of the fungi. Grate your cheese fresh for the best melting and flavor.
- ✓Ensure your saucepan is large enough to accommodate the thickening mixture, as it can expand during cooking.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a subtle warmth, add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper along with the salt.
- To add an aromatic base, sauté 1-2 tablespoons of finely minced onion or 1 clove of minced garlic in 1 tablespoon of oil or butter before adding the water and salt in Step 1.