Crispy Polenta Veggie Fries

Name: Crispy Polenta Veggie Fries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup polenta; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell pepper, carrots); 3 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Crispy Polenta Veggie Fries because they are not only delicious but also a fun twist on traditional fries. The crunchy exterior and soft interior provide a satisfying texture, while the mix of vegetables adds a burst of flavor and color to the dish. I enjoy serving these as a side with my favorite dipping sauce or even as a snack for movie nights. Plus, they are easy to prepare, making them a perfect addition to any meal or gathering.

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:46:15.080Z

When I first experimented with polenta, I was amazed by how versatile it is! Preparing these Crispy Polenta Veggie Fries was a delightful experience, especially when I discovered how nicely it complements various vegetables. I found that letting the polenta chill completely enhances the fries' crispiness, which was a game-changer for me.

During one busy week, I prepared a large batch of these fries and stored them in the fridge. They reheated beautifully in the oven, maintaining their crunchiness! I recommend trying different veggies or spices in the mix to switch things up for a quick and satisfying snack any time of day.

        Why You'll Love These Fries
        Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside
Adaptable to any vegetable you have on hand
A healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried fries

      

Understanding Polenta

Polenta is a versatile ingredient made from ground cornmeal, which provides a creamy texture when cooked. The key to achieving the perfect polenta lies in the gradual whisking of the cornmeal into the boiling broth. This technique ensures the polenta thickens smoothly without lumps. I recommend using a whisk rather than a spoon during this step, as it allows for better incorporation of air and helps create that light, fluffy interior.

When selecting polenta, opt for quality cornmeal, as the flavor will deeply affect your dish. Fine cornmeal is ideal for a creamier texture, while coarser varieties will yield a more rustic fry. Keep an eye on the cooking time; overcooking can lead to a grainy texture, while undercooking leaves it too loose. Perfect polenta should be glossy and pull away from the sides of the pot when finished.

Getting the Fry Shape Just Right

Cutting the polenta into fry shapes can be a bit tricky if the polenta isn't firm enough. Ensure you refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes; this time allows it to set properly, making cutting easier. When you're ready to shape the fries, use a sharp knife and aim for even thickness, about half an inch, to promote uniform cooking. Uneven sizes may result in some fries being overcooked while others remain undercooked.

For the best results, dust the cut polenta with a little extra salt before baking. This helps to enhance flavor as it crisps up in the oven. If you want to elevate the flavor further, consider sprinkling a bit of garlic powder or smoked paprika on the fries prior to baking for an added depth of taste.

Ingredients for Crispy Polenta Veggie Fries

Main Ingredients

1 cup polenta
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell pepper, carrots)
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match your favorite vegetables to personalize this recipe!

How to Make Crispy Polenta Veggie Fries

Prepare the Polenta

Bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a medium-sized pot. Gradually whisk in the polenta, reduce the heat, and cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens. Stir continuously to avoid lumps.

Incorporate Vegetables

Add the mixed vegetables to the polenta, stirring until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.

Chill the Mixture

Spread the polenta mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, smoothing it into an even layer. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until firm.

Cut and Bake

Once chilled, cut the polenta into fry-shaped pieces. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the fries on a new baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces!

Pro Tips

For extra crispiness, let the fries bake a bit longer but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Storing and Reheating

These Crispy Polenta Veggie Fries can be made ahead of time and stored for later. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat in an oven rather than a microwave, which often leads to a soggy texture. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cut but uncooked polenta fries. Flash-freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This allows for quick homemade fries whenever the craving strikes.

Flavor Variations

The beauty of these vegetable fries is their adaptability. Try mixing different vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preferences. Sweet potatoes, broccoli, or even spinach can add different colors and flavors. Just be sure to chop them into small, consistent pieces so they cook through evenly within the polenta.

Adding fresh herbs or spices like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the polenta mixture can also enhance the flavor profile. For a cheesy version, incorporate grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a plant-based alternative. This not only boosts the flavor but also adds a satisfying umami depth. Just remember to adjust the salt level accordingly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cornmeal instead of polenta?

Yes, cornmeal can work, but it may change the texture slightly. Just ensure it is cooked thoroughly.

→ What vegetables work best for this recipe?

Zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots are great, but feel free to experiment with any veggies you have on hand!

→ Can these fries be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and chill the polenta in advance, then bake them right before serving.

→ How should I store leftover fries?

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.