Polenta com Ragu de Legumes

Polenta com Ragu de Legumes is a comforting Brazilian baked dish featuring creamy polenta topped with a hearty vegetable ragu. This vegetarian delight is perfect for a cozy dinner, combining rich flavors and textures in each bite.

Ingredients

• Polenta - 200 grams
• Water - 800 ml
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Bell pepper - 1 medium, diced
• Carrot - 1 medium, diced
• Zucchini - 1 medium, diced
• Mushrooms - 150 grams, sliced
• Tomato puree - 200 grams
• Vegetable broth - 200 ml
• Dried oregano - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste
• Parmesan cheese - 50 grams, grated (optional)
• Fresh basil - for garnish

Steps

1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and slowly whisk in the polenta, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
2. Reduce the heat to low and cook the polenta for about 20 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the diced bell pepper, carrot, zucchini, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the tomato puree, vegetable broth, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
7. In a greased baking dish, spread half of the polenta to form a base. Pour the vegetable ragu over the polenta, then top with the remaining polenta.
8. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 5 mg
• Total Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Water: 0.8 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in fiber from vegetables, promoting digestive health.
• Provides a good source of plant-based protein from polenta and vegetables.

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