Best Easy Polenta e Cavolo Recipe

Creamy polenta paired with braised cabbage is alpine Italian comfort food. This vegetarian mediterranean dish is healthy, family-friendly, and works well in a 1500 calorie meal plan.

Cook 50 min Difficulty NORMAL 260 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean #family friendly #comfort food
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • yellow cornmeal (polenta) 1 cup
  • whole milk 2 cups
  • water 2 cups
  • green cabbage 1 lb
  • yellow onion 1 medium
  • shredded parmesan cheese 0.25 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • olive oil 2 tbsp
  • unsalted butter 1 tbsp
  • kosher salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • nutmeg 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 44 g 68%
Protein 7 g 11%
Fat 6 g 21%
Serving size 340g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened without browning.

  2. 2

    Add sliced green cabbage, 0.5 tsp salt, and black pepper. Stir well, cover, and cook on low heat for 15–18 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage is tender and collapsed.

  3. 3

    In a separate saucepan, bring 2 cups milk, 2 cups water, and 0.5 tsp salt to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the cornmeal in a steady stream to prevent lumps.

  4. 4

    Reduce heat to low and stir polenta constantly with a wooden spoon for 20–25 minutes, scraping the pan bottom frequently, until very thick and creamy.

  5. 5

    Turn off the heat and add shredded parmesan and nutmeg to the polenta. Stir until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot, topping each portion of polenta with the braised cabbage and a drizzle of remaining olive oil.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The core ingredient that gives this dish its creamy texture and hearty base is yellow cornmeal, used to make the polenta. The combination of creamy polenta and braised cabbage defines the classic Italian flavor and comfort of Polenta e Cavolo.
Q. Which seasoning makes the biggest impact on flavor?
Olive oil plays a central role in adding richness and Mediterranean character, while a hint of nutmeg in the finished polenta brings gentle warmth to balance the cheese and cabbage.
Q. How do I keep polenta creamy without lumps?
Slowly whisk the cornmeal into simmering liquid and maintain low heat while stirring continuously. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom and prevent sticking for a silky, lump-free result.
Q. What is the calorie and carb count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 260 kcal and 44 grams of carbohydrates, making this dish suitable for balanced meal planning and those seeking a healthy comfort food option.
Q. How can I prevent overcooking the cabbage?
Cook the cabbage over low heat with the lid on, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat as soon as the cabbage is soft but still holds shape, ensuring a tender bite without mushiness.
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