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Polenta e Osei Recipe

Polenta e Osei

The Polenta e Osei recipe is a traditional dessert from Lombardy, Italy. With a base of cornmeal and topped with rich chocolate decorations, this delightful dessert brings the rustic charm of Italy to your table.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup finely ground cornmeal
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Bird-shaped chocolates or marzipan optional
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Optional: citrus zest candied nuts, or Italian liqueur

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Polenta:
  2. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of finely ground cornmeal. Reduce the heat to low, stirring occasionally for 30 minutes, until it thickens.
  3. Cool the Polenta:
  4. Pour the polenta into a baking dish and let it cool completely. It should firm up, making it easier to shape.
  5. Shape and Bake:
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the cooled polenta into small discs or ellipses using a cookie cutter. Arrange the discs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  7. Prepare the Sugar Syrup:
  8. Combine 1/2 cup sugar with 1/4 cup water in a saucepan and heat until dissolved. Let the syrup cool slightly.
  9. Brush and Bake:
  10. Lightly brush the tops of the polenta discs with the sugar syrup and bake for 10-15 minutes until they become slightly golden on the edges.
  11. Make the Chocolate Ganache:
  12. In a separate bowl, melt 1/2 cup dark chocolate with 1/4 cup heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
  13. Decorate:
  14. Spread the chocolate ganache over the top of the baked polenta discs. Add bird-shaped chocolates or marzipan for decoration if desired. Dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Notes

Customization: Feel free to add citrus zest or a splash of Italian liqueur to the polenta for extra flavor. A sprinkle of candied nuts adds a crunchy texture.
Presentation Tip: Contrasting colors like powdered sugar and chocolate shavings make the dessert pop visually.