Crispy Polenta Veggie Fries

Name: Crispy Polenta Veggie Fries
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup polenta; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or dill); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Crispy Polenta Veggie Fries because they are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. I can customize them by adding different seasonings or herbs based on what I have on hand. The outside gets perfectly golden and crunchy while the inside remains soft and tender. They make a fantastic alternative to regular fries and are perfect for dipping into my favorite sauces. In just 30 minutes, I can enjoy a savory snack that leaves everyone craving more!

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-18T04:04:16.635Z

When I first decided to experiment with polenta, I was amazed at how versatile it could be. Making these veggie fries allowed me to use up leftover vegetables while creating a mouthwatering dish. Scoring the polenta before baking ensures that the edges become extra crispy, adding to the delightful texture.

I've found that letting the polenta cool completely before cutting it into fries is key to achieving the perfect shape and preventing them from falling apart. They pair wonderfully with a homemade dipping sauce, making them a crowd-pleaser every time!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with a soft interior
Endlessly customizable with seasonal vegetables and spices
A healthier alternative to traditional fries without sacrificing flavor

      

Polenta Preparation Tips

When making polenta fries, the key to achieving the perfect texture lies in how you cook the polenta. As you whisk it into the boiling vegetable broth, aim for a smooth consistency, free of lumps. Stirring continuously helps prevent clumping and ensures the polenta cooks evenly. Once it begins to thicken, reducing the heat to low is crucial; this slow cooking allows the flavors to develop while creating the creamy base for your fries.

After you've added the seasonings to the polenta, give it a taste before spreading it in the baking dish. Adjusting the salt and other spices at this stage is important since the flavors will concentrate once cooled. If you prefer a bolder flavor, consider adding some grated cheese or a dash of hot sauce into the mix.

Achieving the Perfect Crisp

For that irresistibly crispy exterior, the temperature and timing of your baking play a significant role. Preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) ensures that the polenta fries start cooking immediately upon being placed in the oven, creating a golden crust. Flipping the fries halfway through helps them brown evenly and prevents sogginess. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes, as oven temperatures can vary, and you want them to reach that perfect shade of golden brown.

Using a parchment-lined baking sheet instead of a greased one not only allows for easy cleanup but also aids in achieving the desired crispiness. If you find that your fries are not crisping as you'd like, try broiling them for a minute or two at the end. This additional heat can enhance the crunch factor.

Serving and Storage Ideas

These crispy polenta veggie fries are fantastic served immediately out of the oven, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauces like homemade hummus, spicy ketchup, or the suggested yogurt dip. You can elevate your presentation by garnishing them with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese just before serving. They’re an excellent appetizer for parties or movie nights, sure to be a hit among guests.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, place them back in the oven or an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked polenta fries. Simply freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once solid. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Ingredients

For Polenta Fries

1 cup polenta
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For Dipping Sauce (optional)

1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or dill)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Polenta

In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the polenta, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 10 minutes until thickened. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Spread and Cool

Pour the cooked polenta into a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes, then refrigerate for an additional 10 minutes to firm up.

Cut into Fries

Once the polenta is firm, cut it into fry shapes. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Bake the Fries

Place the polenta fries on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with olive oil and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce

In a bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, herbs, salt, and pepper. Serve alongside the crispy polenta fries.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, experiment with different spices and herbs in the polenta. You can also try frying the polenta fries for an even crispier texture, but baking is healthier and just as delicious.

Fun Variations

One of the great aspects of polenta fries is their versatility. You can switch up the herbs and spices to match whatever you’re craving or have on hand. For a Mediterranean twist, try adding feta cheese, oregano, and sundried tomatoes. Alternatively, for a Latin-inspired flavor, mix in some cilantro and chili powder. This adaptability means your fries can change with the seasons, allowing fresh garden ingredients to shine through.

You can also experiment with different shapes. While cutting them into traditional fry shapes is popular, feel free to create wedges or even fun shapes with cookie cutters. This not only caters to kids but makes for an eye-catching presentation that can spice up your dinner table.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make these fries gluten-free, rest assured that polenta is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with sensitivities. In terms of broth, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth based on personal preference. Just beware that different broths will yield varying flavors, so choose one that complements the seasonings you use.

For a dairy-free option, replace Greek yogurt in the dipping sauce with a plant-based yogurt alternative. Coconut or almond yogurt can work well, adding a slightly different flavor that still pairs nicely with the polenta fries. Also, if you're avoiding oil, consider baking the fries without brushing them, though they may lose some crispiness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your polenta fries turn out too soft and not crisp at all, it could be due to either an insufficient bake time or insufficient cooling before cutting. Ensure the polenta cools well enough so that it firms up, which helps to achieve a firmer fry. Adjusting your oven rack to a higher position can also help enhance browning if you find they’re not crisping properly.

Another common issue is uneven cooking, which often happens if the fries are overcrowded on the baking sheet. Ensure they are spread out in a single layer, giving each fry enough space to allow hot air to circulate. If you’re batch cooking, make sure to prepare multiple trays or bake in batches to maintain that crucial crispiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use water instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, but using vegetable broth adds more flavor to the polenta.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the polenta fries?

Yes, you can freeze the cut fries before baking. Just make sure to separate them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag.

→ What can I serve with these fries?

They pair well with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or even a spicy aioli.