Steve Chiappetti – Executive Chef, the Albert Chicago
the Albert Chicago
228 E. Ontario St., Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 471-3883
Events/Classes:
- February 23: Romantic Cocktails (learn how to make cocktails for 2, then enjoy bites)
- March 23: Hops & Barley (beer education and beer cocktails, matched with hearty bites)
- April 20: Garden Cocktails (creating cocktails with springtime flavors with hearty, veggie-forward bites)
Recipe:
Polenta Party
Polenta is a simple farmer’s-type dish that has been elevated over the years in Italy. A true staple in some diets, it is filled with creamy, cheesy goodness that goes so well with your favorite sauces and veggies.
Having a polenta party is a great way to entertain. A natural conversation starter, dinner guests will naturally interact with one another while enjoying food and the process of customizing their own dishes.
1 cup corn meal
3 cup water
1 cup heavy cream
4 ounce unsalted butter
To taste Kosher salt
To taste table grind black pepper
Serves 4
Cook time – 25 minutes
Step 1. In a medium-sized pot, add water and bring to a boil. Slowly add in your corn meal stirring every so often with a whisk, removing any lumps that form. The idea at this point is to let the cornmeal bloom and transform into a smooth texture.
Step 2. When it begins to tighten up add in the heavy cream and stir. Let this slowly simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes. Add in the butter, salt and pepper.
Step 3. Now comes the magic. Add in all the shredded cheese, stir and let it become a creamy masterpiece for your next gathering. Pull out your biggest wood board and pour the polenta and spread it evenly and place in the center of the dining table. I usually have 3 to 4 sides that dinner guests can easily spoon onto their polenta as they wish.
Sides are a lot of fun, and this is where guest customization can come into play. Some of my favorites include pesto sauce, tomato sauce, sauteed mushrooms, tomatoes, roasted vegetables of any kind and more. You can make these ahead of time or purchase your favorites from the store and heat for no-fuss, one recipe entertaining!
