Skip to main content

Buttered Polenta

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This classic buttered polenta is a staple of Italian-inspired home cooking, offering a rich and velvety texture that far surpasses quick-cook alternatives. By simmering the grains slowly with sea salt and finishing with a generous knob of unsalted butter, you create a deeply comforting vegetarian side dish. The result is a smooth, golden base that carries savoury flavours beautifully, making it an essential addition to your recipe repertoire.

Traditionally served as a gluten-free alternative to pasta or mash, this versatile dish is perfect for soaking up the juices from a rich mushroom ragou or roasted Mediterranean vegetables. For the best results, use a heavy-based pan to ensure even heat distribution and stir frequently to achieve that signature glossy finish. It is the ultimate cold-weather accompaniment for any family supper.

In this article:

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Buttered Polenta

  • 1200ml water

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 1/4 teaspoons coarse gray sea salt

  • 240ml polenta (not quick-cooking

  • 140g )

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter

How to make Buttered Polenta

Bring water, oil, and sea salt to a boil in a 4-quart heavy pot, then add polenta in a slow stream, whisking. Cook over moderate heat, whisking, 2 minutes. Reduce heat to low and cook at a bare simmer, uncovered, stirring frequently with a long-handled spoon, 45 minutes. Remove from heat, then add butter and stir until incorporated.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.