Denny Imbroisi’s Creamy Polenta: A Taste of Italian Family Tradition

Italian cuisine is celebrated for its comforting and generous flavors. Now, chef Denny Imbroisi, owner of the acclaimed Ischia and IDA restaurants in Paris, shares his family’s recipes in his cookbook, Cucina di Famiglia. Published by Webedia Books, the book offers a deeply personal gaze into Imbroisi’s culinary history, tracing his childhood and journey as a chef, featuring recipes from both the North and South of Italy.

A Creamy Polenta Recipe for Every Occasion

One standout recipe from Cucina di Famiglia is Imbroisi’s creamy polenta – a dish perfect for both simple weeknight meals and festive gatherings. This recipe highlights the versatility of polenta, a staple in Italian cuisine.

Denny Imbroisi’s Creamy Polenta Recipe

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Cooking time: 1 hour

Serves: 4 people

Ingredients:

• 250g cornmeal
• 30g butter
• 50g grated Grana Padano cheese
• Salt
• Pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 liter of water in a large saucepan with a pinch of salt.
2. Once boiling, remove from heat and whisk in the cornmeal.
3. Return to heat and lower to a gentle simmer.
4. Continue stirring gently with a spatula for approximately 1 hour, until the polenta is smooth and creamy and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and Grana Padano cheese until well combined.
6. Serve hot, with a grind of black pepper.

Chef Imbroisi’s Tips for Polenta Perfection

For an even richer flavor, Chef Imbroisi suggests substituting 750ml of water with 250ml of milk during the cooking process. Alternatively, replace the butter with 100g of Gorgonzola cheese for a more robust and creamy polenta. Imbroisi describes this variation as a “Proust madeleine,” evoking strong memories and comforting flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the creamy polenta hot, spread lightly on a plate or in a bowl. It pairs beautifully with meats in sauce, such as braised beef, osso buco, or pork ragout. Seafood dishes, like octopus in sauce, also complement the polenta’s creamy texture. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it with pan-fried mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a complete and flavorful meal. A sprinkle of Parmesan or Gorgonzola cheese can further enhance the dish.

Cucina di Famiglia by Denny Imbroisi, 224 pages, €29.90, Webedia Books editions.