Vegan Eggplant Curry with Creamy Coconut Note!
Crispy Polenta Sticks – The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion
Sometimes you just need something crispy that’s both healthy and delicious. These crispy polenta sticks are exactly that! They’re delightfully crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and pair perfectly with your favorite dip. Whether as a snack, a side dish for a main meal, or as finger food for guests, they’re perfect for any occasion.
Why Polenta Sticks?
Polenta is not only versatile but also a great gluten-free alternative. It’s rich in complex carbohydrates, providing energy with a natural, slightly sweet flavor. By baking or frying, the sticks become extra crispy without requiring much oil. Paired with a creamy dip, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 200 gram polenta (cornmeal)
- 750 milliliter vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika powder (sweet)
- 1 teaspoon thyme or rosemary (dried)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoon nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor, optional)
Instructions
- Bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a pot. Gradually whisk in the polenta while stirring continuously. Continue stirring over medium heat until the polenta thickens (approx. 5 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Stir in the olive oil, paprika powder, thyme or rosemary, and salt and pepper. Spread the mixture evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (approx. 1 cm thick). Let it cool until firm (approx. 30 minutes).
- Once cooled, cut the polenta into finger-width sticks.
- Bake or fry. Bake. Place the sticks on a baking sheet, brush with a little olive oil, and bake at 200 °C (400 °F) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Fry. Pan-fry the sticks in a little olive oil over medium heat until crispy on all sides.
- Serve the crispy polenta sticks warm with your favorite dip. Check out my existing dip recipes on the blog for the perfect pairing – from hummus to spicy roasted red pepper walnut dip, you’ll find plenty of delicious options!
Notes
Crispy polenta sticks are a delicious, versatile, and healthy alternative to classic fries or chips. They’re easy to make, satisfyingly crunchy, and pair perfectly with a variety of dips. Whether as a side dish or snack, these sticks are always a good idea. Try them out and find your favorite dip from my recipes!
Enjoy your meal and share your creations with me by tagging @vegan_franzi on social media or using the hashtag #gonut.
