Turkey And Sage Polenta Cakes
Savory turkey and sage-infused polenta cakes offer a comforting, flavorful bite perfect for appetizers or light meals, combining creamy cornmeal with aromatic herbs and tender turkey.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chicken broth, chopped onion, and chopped celery in a large heavy-bottomed pan.
- In a small bowl, mix together cornmeal and rubbed sage.
- Bring the broth mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and gradually add the cornmeal mixture a half cup at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon after each addition.
- Cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is thick and smooth and starts to leave a film on the sides and bottom of the pan.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and Old English cheese spread.
- Taste and add salt as needed.
- Pour the polenta into a buttered 8-inch square pan and allow to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut the polenta into 2-inch squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the polenta before cooling. If you don't have Old English cheese spread, cream cheese or a sharp cheddar can work as substitutes. When adding salt, do it gradually to avoid over-seasoning, especially if your broth is already salty. Don't forget to stir continuously while adding the cornmeal to prevent clumping.
Serving Suggestions
These polenta cakes are delicious served warm as a side dish to roasted meats or grilled vegetables. For a complete meal, pair them with a fresh salad or a hearty soup. They also make a great appetizer when topped with sautéed mushrooms or a dollop of marinara sauce. Browse more American recipes for additional inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover polenta cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the cakes on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but be mindful not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey And Sage Polenta Cakes contains roughly 1750 calories, with 4g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 191g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1987mg per serving (86% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add other ingredients to the polenta mixture?
Absolutely! You can customize the polenta by adding cooked vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition. Herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the taste. Just be cautious not to add too much moisture, which can affect the texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).