Side Dishes > Grain Dishes (Other) > Polenta Sides > Grilled Polenta Recipe

Spicy Grilled Polenta with Chipotle Aioli

Add a kick to your side dish with this spicy grilled polenta recipe, featuring a smoky chipotle aioli for dipping. The polenta is infused with chili powder and cumin, then grilled to perfection and served with a creamy, spicy aioli. A perfect appetizer or side to complement grilled meats or Mexican-inspired dishes.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
50 minutes
Servings
6-8
Ingredients
  • 4 cups Polenta (coarse ground)
  • 8 cups Water
  • 2 teaspoons Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cumin
  • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice
  • 1 clove Garlic

Cooking the Polenta

In a large saucepan, bring the water, salt, chili powder, and cumin to a boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta, ensuring no lumps form. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for about 30-40 minutes, or until the polenta is thick and pulls away from the sides of the pan. The spices infuse the polenta during the cooking process.

Setting the Polenta

Remove the polenta from the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Pour the polenta into a lightly oiled 9x13 inch baking dish or a similar sized container. Spread evenly and let it cool completely. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling is essential for firm polenta.

Making the Chipotle Aioli

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced chipotle peppers, lime juice, minced garlic, and remaining olive oil. Stir well to combine. Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers to suit your spice preference. Refrigerate until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Grilling the Polenta

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Remove the polenta from the refrigerator and cut it into 1/2-inch thick slices. Brush each slice lightly with olive oil. Grill the polenta slices for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and have grill marks. Grilling enhances the flavor and adds a nice texture.

Serving

Serve the grilled polenta hot with a generous dollop of chipotle aioli. Garnish with chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of smoked paprika, if desired. This is an excellent side dish for grilled chicken, steak, or fish.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 150kcal, Carbohydrates: 22g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 6g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 3mg, Sodium: 350mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 2g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

The chipotle aioli adds extra calories and fat. Use light mayonnaise to reduce the fat content. Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers based on your spice preference. This recipe is gluten-free.

← Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Vibrant Mediterranean Couscous →

FAQ

  • Can I make the aioli ahead of time?

    Yes, the chipotle aioli can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
  • Can I bake the polenta instead of grilling it?

    Yes, you can bake the polenta slices in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Can I use smoked paprika in the polenta itself?

    Yes, adding 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the polenta while cooking will enhance the smoky flavor.