Vegetarian Instant Pot Polenta

Total time40 min

Prep time5 min

Cook time25 min

Creamy, deeply comforting polenta comes together with almost no effort thanks to the Instant Pot, which turns coarse-ground cornmeal into a rich, spoonable porridge in just minutes. Whisking the cornmeal with water before sealing the lid keeps things smooth and clump-free, and a quick natural release followed by vigorous stirring is what transforms that separated-looking mixture into something silky and thick. Melted butter and finely grated Parmesan get folded in at the end, giving the polenta a glossy, savory finish with a hit of black pepper. A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens each bowl right before serving, and a splash of warm water loosens things up if it sits too long. This is an easy, satisfying side that fits neatly into a vegetarian kitchen, whether you're pairing it with roasted vegetables or serving it as a cozy dish on its own.

About Fig

Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.

Learn more →

Ingredients

4 servings

1 cup coarse-ground cornmeal (polenta)
Quaker Corn Meal Yellow - 24 Oz Bobs Red Mill Organic Medium Grind Cornmeal Bobs Red Mill Cornmeal Medium Grind - 24 Oz Bob's Red Mill Medium Grind Cornmeal Bob's Red Mill Coarse Grind Cornmeal
See all
4 cups water
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Chef's tip
Use the same amount of low-sodium vegetable broth. The dish will be a little lighter in flavor than with chicken broth.
1 tsp kosher salt
2 tbsp unsalted butter
½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
¼ tsp black pepper

For serving

1–2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

1
Combine the cornmeal, water, chicken broth, and salt in the Instant Pot insert and whisk until the cornmeal is evenly distributed with no dry clumps.
2
Secure the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes.

Want the full recipe?

Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!