Crispy Air Fryer Polenta Fries (Healthy & Easy)

Fried polenta sticks are a beloved appetizer, and we’re sharing a quicker, healthier way to make them at home. With this Air Fryer Polenta Fries recipe, you’ll achieve that perfect crispy texture without the excess oil. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Polenta Fries:

Polenta Base:

• 1 ½ cups (approx. 240g) cornmeal (fine or medium grind);
• 3 cups water;
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil;
• 6 cloves garlic, minced;
• Salt to taste;
• Black pepper to taste.

For Coating:

• ¾ cup (approx. 120g) cornmeal;
• 2 tablespoons olive oil.

How to make Air Fryer Polenta Fries:

Preparing the Polenta:

1. In a bowl, mix half of the water with the cornmeal until smooth;
2. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over low heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant;
3. Add the remaining water to the saucepan;
4. Pour in the cornmeal mixture;
5. Season with salt and black pepper, stirring constantly over low heat;
6. Once thickened, continue cooking for about 4 minutes or until the polenta pulls away easily from the bottom of the pan;
7. Transfer the mixture to a container lightly greased with olive oil;
8. Smooth the surface with a spatula;
9. Refrigerate for about 2 hours, or until firm;
10. Once set, turn it out onto a cutting board and slice into sticks (fries).

Coating and Air Frying:

1. In a shallow dish, combine the cornmeal and olive oil. Coat each polenta stick thoroughly;
2. Place the sticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 350°F (180°C) for about 20 minutes. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tip:

For an extra crispy and golden finish, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes before adding the polenta. Once you place the fries inside, lower the temperature to 350°F (180°C) to finish cooking.

Did you know?

Polenta is a traditional Italian dish made from boiled cornmeal. While traditionally cooked slowly on the stovetop with constant stirring, using an air fryer is a modern, convenient way to get that signature crispy exterior with less oil and time. It’s the perfect healthy twist on a classic comfort food.

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