Creamy Pumpkin Polenta with Cranberry and Crispy Fried Sage

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This bowl of goodness is comfort food at it’s finest:  rich, sweet, salty, nourishing and filled with flavor.  It’s the kind of dish I’d make when entertaining- everything can be cooked in advance save for the sage which is easy to throw on there at the last minute.  And, the flavor and presentation is impressive even though it’s so insanely simple to cook.  Which means it checks all of my boxes for a dinner with friends!  If you’re hanging onto Fall flavors with all your might the way that I am I think you’ll really appreciate this one!  xx- Sarah

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click to read yo

sweet & salty polenta breakfast

during spring in coastal southern california there’s a marine layer that overtakes the mornings that’s referred to as “may grey” and “june gloom”.  it’s not uncommon to wake up and feel like it’s winter, only to have the sun pop out later in the day and realize you’re dressed in entirely too many clothes.  for these mornings i’ve been enjoying this treat, it warms me up and is a good mix-up from the everyday oatmeal. the trick: lots of salt and a really high quality maple syrup. delicious!

the what:

1/2 cup polenta (not the quick-cooking kind!)

3/4 cup almond milk

1 1/4 cup water

sea salt

high grade maple syrup

the how:

combine polenta, almond milk and water in a pot and cook over medium/low heat. stif often!  i like to hover over polenta cooking it almost like a risotto with constant stirring. but it’s not necessary, just my preference.

add salt and taste. you want this polenta good and salty, so don’t hesitate to add more!  you’ll be adding some sweet down the road so a good salty base is important.

keep tasting (critical) and add some more water if it gets too thick before it’s gotten soft. when it’s thoroughly cooked (soft, salty and a consistency you’re pleased with) remove from stove and spoon into a bowl.  this makes one substantial servings or two little ones.

drizzle with maple syrup and eat while it’s piping hot!  june gloom be damned.