Polenta Fries (Gluten-Free, Vegan Recipe) - Elavegan (2024)

FAQs

Can you eat polenta if you are gluten-free? ›

Since polenta is derived from corn, it is naturally gluten-free making it the perfect choice for those with a gluten intolerance.

Polenta is cornmeal made from ground flint corn. Typically, it's coarsely ground yellow corn, but sometimes it's finely ground yellow or white corn.

Polenta can be made from a variety of grains such as semolina wheat. As an example, polenta in certain parts of Italy is made from semolina wheat (so coeliacs beware), which if you didn't do your research and you were a coeliac, could have serious consequences if you ate it.

The Basics of Low-Fermentation Eating

Ideal LFE foods include: Refined carbohydrates, including bagels, white or wheat bread (but not multigrain or whole wheat), pasta, egg noodles, polenta, quinoa, white rice, and corn or flour tortillas.

Surprisingly, polenta (which is none other than yellow cornmeal) is a powerful source of antioxidants like phenolic compounds, which can help reduce inflammation.

It's gluten-free. Polenta is made from corn, making it a gluten-free ingredient that offers all the nurturing, heartiness, and satiety of comfort food dishes that often contain gluten, such as pasta or bread.

Polenta is often used to substitute grains like pasta and rice, as it's lower in calories and is a source of complex carbohydrates. Because complex carbohydrates aren't broken down as quickly as simple carbohydrates, it's ideal for individuals watching their blood sugar levels.

Polenta is naturally low in fat and can be eaten as part of a heart-healthy diet. A person looking to reduce their saturated fat intake should cook polenta with water, plant milk, or broth instead of dairy milk, and avoid adding cheese or butter.

Polenta is a nutritious gluten-free grain that makes for a delicious source of antioxidants. Compared to regular french fries, polenta fries are lower in carbohydrates, sodium, and calories, making them an excellent healthier substitute.

As a soft, just-cooked porridge, polenta owns a sweet corn flavor and robust texture. It takes on the flavors of its added ingredients, which can be as simple as its traditional partners, butter and cheese. Often porridge-style polenta is served topped with sautéed seasonal vegetables, meats and seafood. Get creative!

What is a good substitute for polenta? ›

Packages labeled polenta mean that the grind of the corn is appropriate to make the polenta dish, but you can substitute regular medium or coarsely-ground cornmeal instead.

Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) is gluten-free and is a great alternative to gluten-containing grains. It is a nutritionally dense whole grain that gives a higher amount of antioxidants than other common grains eaten on the gluten-free diet. It's also one of the few plant foods that is considered a complete protein.

This corn is far starchier. A great alternative to refined carbs like white bread and pasta, polenta takes longer to break down in your digestive system, which can help you stay feeling fuller for longer and provide long-lasting energy to use throughout the day.

While polenta is high in starchy carbs, it has a medium GI of 68, meaning it shouldn't raise your blood sugar levels too quickly. It also has a low GL, so it shouldn't cause your blood sugar to spike too high after eating it ( 6 ).

Making polenta is quick and easy and the digestive system loves it. Polenta is high in fiber and low in calories. Due to its neutral taste, it can be combined with various foods and served as breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It is filling and easily digestible.

Cornmeal is also gluten-free. Cornmeal is a coarse flour made from maize, (i.e. corn). Just like cornflour, it's important to look for labeled gluten-free cornmeal whenever possible, as cross-contact can easily occur during manufacturing. Hominy is a product of corn and is gluten-free.

Now that you know more about polenta and its gluten free properties, it's time to start cooking with it. Ideal for gluten free and grain free cooking, polenta can be used to create sweet and savory recipes that eaters of all ages will enjoy.

Corn tortillas are a healthier alternative to flour tortillas. They provide more whole grains and have built-in portion control because they're typically smaller. They're also gluten-free and thus suitable for people who cannot tolerate gluten.