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1
In a large pot over medium-high heat, bring stock to a boil.
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2
Slowly pour in polenta, stirring with a whisk as you add it.
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3
After all polenta is added it will take about 2 minutes for it to begin to thicken.
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4
Reduce heat to low and continue cooking and stirring occasionally for approximately 40 minutes, or until polenta is smooth, and no longer gritty on the tongue.
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5
Just before finishing, stir in Parmigiano-Reggiano and thyme.
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6
In a 9 by 12-inch baking dish, add 1 tablespoon water.
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7
Transfer polenta to baking dish and spread until it is of uniform thickness.
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8
Refrigerate for 1 hour, or until it solidifies.
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9
To make roasted red bell pepper sauce, roast the red and poblano peppers whole over a gas flame, a charcoal flame or under a broiler, turning 1/4 rotation every few minutes, until entirely blackened.
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10
Immediately place in a paper bag, seal, and let sit for 3 minutes.
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11
Peel off the charred skin and discard.
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12
Slice the peeled peppers open and discard the membranes and seeds
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13
In a saute pan over medium heat, heat the butter and add the shallots.
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14
Cook for about 6 minutes, stirring frequently, or until the shallots just begin to show signs of browning.
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15
Add the stock, 2 roasted bell peppers, poblano chili, and thyme.
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16
Bring to a boil, then immediately reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes.
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17
(Adjust heat as required to simmer.)
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18
Remove from heat and let cool.
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19
In a food processor or blender, add pan contents along with the remaining red peppers, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
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20
Blend until smooth.
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21
Reserve.
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22
Use a cookie cutter or a pairing knife to cut out desired polenta shapes.
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23
In a saute pan over medium high heat, add oil and saute polenta shapes for approximately 5 minutes per side, or until a golden brown crispy crust has formed on each side.
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24
Just before serving, re-heat sauce in a saucepan and stir in cream.
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25
Ladle 2/3 cup of roasted red bell pepper sauce into a shallow bowl.
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26
Top with one piece of polenta.
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27
Serve immediately.
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28
Recommended beverage: Italian Chianti (red)