savory

Zesty Polenta Fries

These crispy polenta fries are my go-to for a fun snack or side dish. I love how they’re simple to make and pack a punch of flavor with just a few ingredients.

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 30 min
Total Time: 45 min
Servings: 4
Difficulty: easy
Zesty Polenta Fries - Vegan recipe hero image

Whenever I crave something crispy and satisfying, I turn to these zesty polenta fries.

I remember the first time I made them for a gathering; everyone was surprised to learn they were completely vegan!

They’re not only easy to whip up, but they also remind me of the cozy, hearty meals shared with friends around the table.

Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use polenta, which is such a versatile ingredient!

What Makes This Recipe Special

  • Made with simple, plant-based ingredients that are easy to find
  • No animal products - completely vegan and cruelty-free
  • Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike
  • Delicious results that everyone will love, vegan or not

Ingredients & Substitutions

Polenta is such a great base; it’s naturally gluten-free and can be flavored in so many ways! Nutritional yeast gives these fries a cheesy flavor without any nutritional yeast. If you want a spicier kick, feel free to add some cayenne pepper to the mix.

Tips & Notes

  • If you want extra crispy fries, you can spray a little cooking oil on them before baking.
  • I keep my cooked polenta in the fridge for up to a week; it’s a great base for other meals!

Recipe Variations

  • Sometimes I'll add Italian herbs into the polenta for a different flavor profile.
  • You can also try coating the fries in a mixture of breadcrumbs and spices for an extra crunchy texture.

Storage & Freezing

These fries are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the oven to get them crispy again!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the polenta and cut the fries ahead of time. Just bake them when you’re ready to enjoy.

What can I serve with these fries?

They’re great on their own, but I love serving them with a tangy dipping sauce like a vegan ranch or a spicy salsa.

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These crispy polenta fries are my go-to for a fun snack or side dish. I love how they’re simple to make and pack a punch of flavor with just a few ingredients.

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 30 min
Total Time: 45 min
Servings: 4
Difficulty: easy
Scale Recipe:

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil.

  2. 2

    Slowly whisk in the polenta, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

  3. 3

    Reduce heat to low and cook for about 5 minutes, continuing to stir until the polenta thickens.

  4. 4

    Once thickened, stir in the olive oil, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

  5. 5

    Spread the polenta evenly into a greased baking dish (about 9x9 inches) and let it cool completely, or refrigerate for about an hour until firm.

  6. 6

    Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  7. 7

    Once the polenta is firm, cut it into fry shapes.

  8. 8

    Arrange the fries on the baking sheet, making sure they’re not touching each other.

  9. 9

    Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.

  10. 10

    Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

#appetizer#gluten-free#snack#vegan#whole-food-plant-based

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