Modern Polenta Fritters

Ingredients

• 1 cup Milk
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 1 tablespoon Sugar
• 0.5 cup Fine Polenta (Cornmeal) (Use fine ground polenta for a smoother texture.)
• 1 tablespoon Butter
• 1 Egg Yolk
• 0.5 teaspoon Lemon Zest
• 1 Egg (For egg wash)
• 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs
• 1 cup Vegetable Oil (For frying)
• 2 tablespoons Sugar (For sprinkling)

Instructions

1. 1In a medium saucepan, combine milk, salt, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. 2Once the milk mixture boils, gradually whisk in the polenta, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. 3Remove the polenta from the heat. Stir in the butter, egg yolk, and lemon zest until well combined.
4. 4Lightly dampen a breadboard or baking sheet. Pour the polenta mixture onto the prepared surface and spread it to about 1/2 inch thickness. Let it cool completely.
5. 5Once cooled, cut the polenta into desired shapes (squares, diamonds, or rounds). In a shallow dish, beat the egg. Place breadcrumbs in another shallow dish. Dip each polenta piece into the egg, then dredge in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated.
6. 6Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded polenta pieces into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. 7Sprinkle the fried polenta fritters with sugar and serve hot.