Polenta with crispy bacon in the oven

Polenta with baked bacon - a traditional delight perfect for a family dinner! Who doesn't love the aroma and taste of traditional dishes? Polenta with baked bacon is a simple and flavorful recipe that brings together basic ingredients, transforming them into a comforting dish, perfect for evenings spent with loved ones. This recipe is not just a meal, but a story about traditions, authenticity, and the joy of eating together.

Total time: 50 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 cup of cornmeal (approximately 250 g)
- 200 g of homemade bacon
- 200 g of sweet cheese (preferably sheep or cow)
- 100 g of grated cheese
- Water (approximately 1 liter)
- Salt (to taste)

Necessary utensils:
- A pot for boiling the polenta
- A wooden spatula
- 4 clay pots (or ramekins, if you don't have clay pots)
- A baking tray

The story behind the recipe:
Polenta is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed for generations. In the past, it was a staple food for most families, playing an important role in daily nutrition. This dish is versatile and can be served as a side or a main course. The bacon, another essential ingredient in this recipe, adds flavor and texture, turning the polenta into a delicious dish.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Cook the polenta:
In a pot, add 1 liter of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil. When the water starts to boil, gradually pour in the cornmeal, stirring continuously with a wooden spatula to avoid lumps. Continue stirring for 5-7 minutes until the polenta becomes thick and pulls away from the pot's sides.

2. Prepare the bacon:
In a pan, place the diced bacon and fry it over medium heat until golden and crispy. Don't forget to stir occasionally for even cooking. Once the bacon is ready, remove it to a paper towel to absorb excess fat.

3. Assemble the dish:
In the four clay pots, add a tablespoon of the fried bacon along with a bit of melted fat. Then, place a tablespoon of sweet cheese in each pot.

4. Add the polenta:
Now, take the hot polenta and add an even portion to each pot, making sure to cover the cheese.

5. Layer the ingredients:
On top of the polenta, add more cheese and bacon, and finally, cover everything with grated cheese. This layer will become deliciously crispy during baking.

6. Bake in the oven:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the clay pots in a tray and put them in the oven for about 15 minutes or until the cheese turns golden and bubbles.

7. Serve with love:
Remove the pots from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve the polenta with bacon directly from the clay pots to keep the warmth and aroma.

Useful tips:
- Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and instead add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach.
- Delicious combinations: Polenta with bacon pairs perfectly with a fresh tomato and onion salad or pickles.
- Ideal drinks: A craft beer or a dry white wine pairs wonderfully with this comforting dish.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: This recipe offers a balanced caloric intake, considering its ingredients. Polenta is a good source of carbohydrates, while cheese and grated cheese provide essential proteins and calcium for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of cheese? Yes, you can use sheep cheese or any other type of cheese you prefer, but make sure it is a well-formed cheese.
- How long does the polenta last? It is recommended to consume the dish immediately, but if there are leftovers, you can store it in the fridge and reheat it in the oven.

Polenta with baked bacon is more than just a recipe; it is an invitation to the table, an opportunity to share beautiful moments with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!