A Recent Finding For Me!
Funnily enough, I have only recently been introduced to Polenta.
As a new Vegan, I am searching to find all the things which I haven’t yet tried. Polenta is one of these. My friend cooked this for me recently, and I was so pleasantly surprised, I decided to share my findings.
There are a few dishes which I struggle to replace, or which I may occasionally crave. One of these dishes is scrambled eggs with bacon. Now, not only have I learned recently that eggs stimulate the gallbladder; let me give you the quick low down, then let’s get back to the Polenta.
Eggs And The Gallbladder
Eggs are inexpensive, a good source of protein and easy to cook. Unfortunately, egg yolks are high in cholesterol. Too much cholesterol can lead to gallbladder problems, such as inflammation and gallstones.
Gallstones
The Gallbladder occur when bile, which is normally fluid, forms stones in your gallbladder. This is the organ that sits beneath the liver. Most commonly, gallstones contain lumps of fatty (cholesterol-like) material that has solidified and hardened.
Sometimes bile pigments or calcium deposits form gallstones. Sometimes just a few small stones are formed; sometimes a great many. Occasionally, just one large stone is formed.
About one in three women and one in six men form gallstones at some stage in their lives. Gallstones become more common with increasing age.
Alternatives to Eggs
Now, there are alternatives, such as Ackee, but I don’t really like it. Ackee is the national fruit of Jamaica, but it’s cooked and used as a vegetable.
Tofu, is also an option. Tofu, or bean curd, is a popular food derived from soya. I’m not a huge fan of Tofu either.
Now, Let’s Get Back To Polenta
Polenta is a Northern Italian dish made from coarsely ground yellow corn, has always been popular for its simplicity and versatility.
Health Benefits – Fibre
Polenta contains both protein and fibre to help you feel full. Fibre is also recommended to keep the digestive system functioning properly, to feed healthy gut bacteria, and to prevent constipation.
Gluten-free
For people looking for gluten-free dishes, polenta is a good option. Many sources of fibre, such as wheat, couscous, and rye, contain gluten.
Polenta is usually safe to be eaten by people with coeliac disease or a gluten sensitivity. But people should check the ingredient list for other additives.
Rich In Complex Carbohydrates
Polenta contains complex carbohydrates which are broken down slowly, which means they take longer to digest; thereby providing long-lasting energy and help to maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Contains Vitamin A
Although it does not contain large amounts of vitamins and minerals, Polenta does contain some vitamin A, which is necessary for the proper functioning of the kidneys, lungs, and heart.
Source Of Carotenoids
Polenta contains milled corn, which is a good source of carotenoids, which are thought to decrease the risk of certain diseases, such as some types of eye conditions and some cancers.
Low In Fat
Polenta is naturally low in fat and can be eaten as part of a heart-healthy diet. A person looking to reduce their saturated fat intake should cook polenta with water, plant milk, or broth instead of dairy milk, and avoid adding cheese or butter.
Contains Essential Minerals
Iron, magnesium, and zinc are all essential minerals. Although polenta does not provide large amounts of these minerals, they still count towards a healthful diet.
Low Calorie
Polenta is low calorie, similarly to other whole grains that are cooked in a liquid. It provides about 70 calories per 100 grams (g) cooked serving.
Weight Loss And Nutrition
Nutritious, whole foods low in calories, such as Polenta, can be a good choice for people looking to lose or maintain weight.
Although polenta has a porridge-like consistency when cooked, it can be firm enough to slice when it is chilled. The slices can be placed on the grill or in the oven with various toppings, including cheese or sauces.
Uncooked polenta can also be used when baking cakes and bread in place of some of the flour in specific recipes. Using polenta in baked recipes can add nutritional value and a moist consistency.
To get the most nutritious polenta, it’s best to buy cornmeal that is stone ground. The stone ground process allows more of the nutrients to be retained.
A Great Replacement or Alternative
People with celiac disease, a gluten sensitivity, or who are on an elimination diet may find polenta to be a good substitute for wheat dishes. It can also sometimes be used as a substitute for wheat flour when baking.
Conclusion
Polenta, made from corn is gluten free, and with the right seasoning it can be super tasty and the texture is similar to that of scrambled eggs (well the dish I was served was and it was DELICIOUS). Served with some Vegan plant-based bacon or sausages it is a very welcome addition to my recipe collection.
Vegan Polenta Breakfast Plate
There are always alternatives out there and sometimes they are not where you would expect. Be open and try it for yourself.
Juicy Lucy’s Kitchen Polenta Recipe
Watch this space for the Juicy Lucy’s Kitchen Vegan Polenta Breakfast Recipe, coming soon.
