Daily Kitchen Note
Lumpy polenta is a common kitchen frustration that ruins its creamy texture. By slowly raining the cornmeal into boiling liquid while whisking constantly, you can ensure a perfectly smooth, lump-free result.
How to Rain in cornmeal
- Bring your salted liquid (water, stock, or milk) to a rolling boil in a saucepan.
- Gradually pour the cornmeal into the boiling liquid in a slow, steady stream.
- Whisk constantly as you add the cornmeal to prevent lumps from forming.
- Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, whisking frequently, until the polenta is smooth and creamy.
Why it works
Gradually adding the cornmeal while whisking allows the grains to separate and hydrate evenly in the hot liquid, preventing them from clumping together into dry lumps.
