Polenta Taragna Sammarinese
A hearty and rustic polenta dish from San Marino, made with a blend of cornmeal and buckwheat flour, enriched with local cheese and butter. It's a comforting and flavorful staple.
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g Coarse cornmeal
- 200 g Buckwheat flour
- 1.5 liters Water
- 1 tsp Salt
- 100 g Butter
- 150 g Local San Marinese cheese (e.g., Casatella or similar semi-hard cheese)(cubed or grated)
- 50 g Parmigiano-Reggiano(grated)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Bring the water and salt to a rolling boil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot.
💡 Tip: Ensure the pot is large enough to prevent boiling over. - 2
Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and buckwheat flour, ensuring no lumps form.
- 3
Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, for about 40-45 minutes, or until the polenta is thick and creamy.
💡 Tip: Stirring is crucial to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. - 4
In the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in the butter until melted.
- 5
Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the cubed local cheese and grated Parmigiano-Reggiano until the cheese is melted and well incorporated.
💡 Tip: The residual heat should be enough to melt the cheese. - 6
Serve immediately, hot, perhaps with a drizzle of extra butter or a sprinkle of cheese.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The combination of cornmeal and buckwheat gives this polenta its characteristic nutty flavor and slightly coarser texture.
- ✓Use a good quality, semi-hard local cheese for the best flavor.
- ✓Polenta can be made ahead and reheated, though it will thicken considerably. Add a little more water or milk when reheating.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve with a rich meat ragu or grilled sausages.