20 minutes
A warm, creamy buckwheat polenta base topped with sautéed radicchio and crispy bacon.
1. Cook Buckwheat Polenta
Bring 3 cups of water to a gentle simmer in a large pot. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of buckwheat polenta and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Keep stirring continuously to prevent lumps and ensure even cooking. As the polenta thickens, it will start to pull away from the sides of the pot, about 5 minutes.
2. Prepare Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 4 strips of cubed bacon until brown and crisp. Then, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
3. Sauté Radicchio
Add 2 minced garlic cloves to the bacon grease in the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add 2 heads of thinly sliced radicchio to the skillet, along with ½ teaspoon of red wine vinegar, a bit of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the radicchio is tender and wilted.
4. Finish Polenta
Remove the thickened polenta from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, along with freshly ground black pepper to taste. The butter will melt into the polenta, adding a rich, silky finish.
5. Assemble and Serve
To serve, spoon the polenta onto plates, top with the sautéed radicchio, and sprinkle the crispy bacon over everything.
Opt for high-quality stone-ground buckwheat polenta, thick-cut bacon, fresh radicchio, and freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture.
Opt for thick-cut, high-quality bacon and select firm, fresh heads of radicchio with vibrant color. Use freshly grated cheese and unsalted, high-quality butter for the best results.
Adjust polenta with more liquid for a looser version, or cook longer for a thicker texture. Aim for smooth enough to flow but thick enough to hold its shape.
Cook polenta slowly and stir frequently to prevent sticking and achieve a creamy texture.
Cook polenta slowly over moderate heat and stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking for a creamier texture.
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