Gentle Readers, sometimes comfort food comes frozen, in a bag. The Practical Cook adores fresh simple food, but there are days when simplicity, speed, and vegetables come first. Enter Trader Joe’s Frozen Polenta (that’s Italian for “grits”).
Trader Joe's Frozen Polenta with Spinach and Carrots
It’s simple, you heat it up in a pan, and though the instructions don’t say add water, I did and would.
Frozen Disks of Polenta Goodness
Fairly simple process. I served it with Black Beans (added cumin, garlic, and onion, cheddar on top) and sauteed zucchini and red peppers. Colorful. The Practical Cooks Junior were excited to taste test, but not thrilled with the results. The Eldest opted for more black beans, the Youngest opted out of the survey.
Polenta with Black Beans and Zucchini
The polenta wanted some salt, as they say, and a few grinds of black pepper. Overall, it’s good, but I might doctor a bit to gain acceptance going forward. The Juniors prefer my homemade cheese grits, 20 minutes of stirring and all. To be candid, though I enjoyed this, and the ease of it, I can’t disagree with them.
I would give this a B+. Useful for a crunch, very comforting for a lazy day, but not strong enough to be on its own.
Are you a fan of grits or their European cousin, polenta? Share your thoughts in the comments box, or on Twitter. #grits
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It is once again time for Weekly Menus.
Great blog! It’s wonderful to be able to cook from scratch, but let’s get real!
That’s what I like about your blog, it’s real.
Thanks for writing it, I consider your blog a great resource for ideas.
We are nothing if not real here at chez Practical Cook. Thanks for the comment, and welcome aboard!