Polenta Log with Soft Center

I can provide you with a recipe for a delicious polenta log with a soft center. It is a dish that can serve as a comforting appetizer or main course, with a pleasant surprise inside.

Ingredients

• 250 g instant polenta
• 1 liter of water
• Salt to taste
• 200 g soft cheese (such as taleggio or gorgonzola)
• 50 g butter
• 100 g grated cheese (such as parmesan or pecorino)
• Black pepper to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil

Preparation

1. Bring the water to a boil in a large pot and season with salt to taste.
2. Gradually pour in the polenta, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
3. Reduce the heat and continue cooking according to the instructions for instant polenta (usually about 5-8 minutes).
4. Add half the butter and the grated cheese to the polenta and stir until well combined.
5. Lay out a sheet of parchment paper and spread the still-warm polenta on top, smoothing it with a spoon or spatula to form a rectangle about 1 cm thick.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes, then evenly distribute the soft cheese in the center of the polenta, leaving the edges free.
7. Using the parchment paper, gently roll the polenta onto itself from the long side to form a log that encloses the cheese inside.
8. Melt the remaining butter and brush the polenta log with the melted butter. Add a sprinkle of black pepper.
9. Place the log in a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 200 °C for about 20 minutes, until the surface is lightly golden and crispy.
10. Remove the log from the oven, let it cool slightly for a few minutes, then slice it before serving.

Trivia

Polenta is a very versatile dish traditionally popular in Northern Italy. Its use in cooking is extremely varied, from simple preparations cooked in water and dressed with butter and cheese to more elaborate recipes like this one. The soft cheese center makes this dish especially appreciated on colder days, offering comfort and flavor in every bite.