Vegetarian Moroccan-Spiced Corn Polenta

Total time35 min

Prep time10 min

Cook time25 min

This creamy, spice-warmed polenta gets its depth from a toasty blend of cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric, whisked into the cornmeal as it slowly thickens into that perfect, spoon-coating texture. A finishing touch of garlic-infused oil and Parmesan stirred in at the end gives it a rich, savory backbone, brightened with a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. Scattered scallion greens and fresh cilantro on top add a pop of color and freshness that cuts through all that cozy spice. It's an easy stovetop dish that comes together in one pot, and it makes a satisfying, comforting base you can pair with roasted vegetables or serve on its own. This one is a great fit for a vegetarian table, with warm North African flavors that feel special enough for guests but simple enough for a weeknight.

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Ingredients

4 servings

3 cups water
1 cup chicken broth
Pacific Foods Organic Low Sodium Vegetable Broth Swanson Vegetable Broth Pacific Foods Plant-Based Organic Vegetable Broth Kettle And Fire Broth Vegetable Cooking - 32 OZ Kitchen Basics Organic Vegetable Stock Carton - 32 Oz
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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 cup coarse-ground cornmeal (polenta)
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp smoked paprika
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground turmeric
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
¾ tsp salt, plus more to taste
2 tbsp garlic-infused oil, divided
2 tbsp unsalted butter
¼ cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
Chef's tip
Match the form the recipe uses - grated for sprinkling and sauces, a firm wedge for shaving. If the recipe melts the cheese, choose a product labeled meltable.
3 scallions, green tops only, thinly sliced
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, roughly chopped (optional)
1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions

1
Combine the water and chicken broth in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2
Whisk in the cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, cayenne (if using), and salt. Reduce the heat to medium-low.

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