Crispy Polenta Medallions

1. 1

   Cover a baking sheet with plastic or lightly oil a baking dish.

2. 2

   Make polenta and when done, pour onto plastic or into lightly oiled baking dish.

3. 3

   Spread to a thickness of about 1/3 inch using an offset spatula.

4. 4

   If you are using a baking dish and cant spread the polenta that thin, you can always slice the rounds after they are cut to make thinner medallions.

5. 5

   Cover with plastic and allow to stiffen completely, preferably in the refrigerator overnight.

6. 6

   Cut the stiff polenta into 1 1/2 to 2-inch rounds with a cookie cutter.

7. 7

   If the rounds are thick, cut crosswise into 1/3 inch thick rounds.

8. 8

   Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat in a heavy nonstick or cast iron skillet.

9. 9

   The polenta should sizzle as soon as you place the medallion in the oil.

10. 10

    Cook the rounds in batches until nicely browned on each side, about 3 minutes per side.

11. 11

    Turn them carefully with a spatula, and do not crowd the pan.

12. 12

    Drain on paper towels.

13. 13

    Transfer to a platter while warm and place a pinch about 1/4 teaspoon of blue cheese on each round.

14. 14

    It should soften and melt a little bit on the hot surface of the polenta.

15. 15

    Or top with small dollops of the other toppings of your choice.

16. 16

    Serve warm (they are also good when they cool down).

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.