Creamy Berry Breakfast Polenta
As a lover of hearty breakfasts that warm the soul, I can’t help but rave about the comforting deliciousness that is breakfast polenta. There’s something truly special about starting the day with a bowl of creamy polenta, infused with the rich flavors of breakfast favorites!
From the moment you take that first spoonful, you’re greeted with a comforting warmth that sets the tone for a cozy morning ahead. What I adore most about this simple breakfast is how incredibly versatile it is. Whether you prefer it sweet or savory, there are endless possibilities for customizing this dish to suit your taste buds.
Breakfast is touted as being one of the most important meals of the day and while many of us get into a habit of sticking to our favorite cereal with non-dairy milk or overnight oats, there’s no reason not to branch out every once in a while!
We hope you enjoy this delicious dish that’s been a staple in Italy for a long while and have fun making it your own. Here’s to beating the breakfast blues and keeping our bellies full!
Table of Contents
What Is Polenta?
If you’re unfamiliar with polenta, now is your chance to try it! Polenta is a traditional Italian dish made from boiled cornmeal and is incredibly versatile as a base in warm or cold dishes year round. It’s naturally gluten-free and is rich in vitamins A and C and also offers a healthy dose of carotenoids which are thought to decrease the risk of certain cancers and eye disease. Also a good source of fiber and protein, this berry breakfast polenta is the perfect choice for kickstarting your day!
Stoneground Vs Consistent Grind
When it comes to buying dried polenta, there are two grind methods to look out for when you’re in the grocery aisle. Stoneground polenta produces greater grain variance, while consistent grind polenta has a more—you guessed it—consistent grain size. Either one is fine, it all boils down to personal preference!
Breakfast Polenta Topping Ideas
There are infinite ways to make your polenta pop! Here are some suggestions for a boisterous breakfast:
- Vary Your Berries – Not big on blackberries? Add in some strawberries instead! Other berries to consider include lingonberries, raspberries, and huckleberries.
- Sprinkle the Spice – Cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and allspice are great additions to bring your polenta from plain to gratifying!
- Creamy & Dreamy –  Add your favorite non-dairy whipped cream for a delightful dynamic to your breakfast. If you’re feeling adventurous, give our Aquafaba Whipped Cream or Coconut Whipped Cream a try.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! Polenta can be cooked into a creamy porridge similar to oatmeal or cream of wheat. It makes an excellent hot cereal that can be served sweet or savory.
Polenta pairs well with a variety of ingredients and flavors. It can be served for breakfast along with fruit and yogurt or served as a side with dinner and roasted vegetables. It can also be chilled, sliced, and grilled or fried for a crispy and satisfying texture.
Both are made from ground corn but they are not exactly the same. Cornmeal is a flour made from dried corn kernels that have been ground. It comes in different textures, ranging from fine to coarse, and can be used in various recipes such as bread, muffins, and cornbread. On the other hand, polenta is made from coarsely ground cornmeal, resulting in a grainier texture. Because of the difference in texture, they are not interchangeable in all recipes.
More Comforting Corn Dishes
If you enjoyed this creamy breakfast polenta, you’ll also love these sweet vegan grits for breakfast too! And if you’re a corn fanatic, here are some more easy corn dishes:
- If you prefer savor, try this creamy polenta with greens.
- Try your hand at handmade corn tortillas.
- Want a quick and delicious snack? Herbed polenta fries are quick and easy to make!
- For a spicy kick, these jalapeño cornbread muffins have the best flavor!
Creamy Berry Breakfast Polenta
Ingredients
- 2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup polenta grits
- ÂĽ cup maple syrup
- pinch of salt
FOR THE TOPPING
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 2 tablespoons water
- ÂĽ cup simple cashew cream, optional
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, bring the non-dairy milk and water to a boil. Stir in the polenta grits and adjust the heat to medium-low. Cook—covered but vented, stirring occasionally—for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the polenta is creamy. Stir in the maple syrup, and add salt to taste. Keep warm until ready to serve.
- While the polenta is cooking, warm the blueberries, blackberries, and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, adjust the heat to medium-low, and cook until the berries start to break down, about 10 minutes. Lightly mash the berries if they are not breaking apart.
- Divide the creamy polenta between 4 bowls, and top each with some berry mixture. Dollop 1 tablespoon of simple cashew cream on top of each bowl (if using), and serve warm.
Notes
- Note: If you do not have fresh berries on hand, frozen will also work. You may have to cook them longer because they retain more water.
Nutrition
Vegan Berry Breakfast Polenta recipe published by Vegan Yack Attack On The Go! © 2018 Quarto Publishing Group USA Inc. Text © 2018 Jackie Sobon. First Published in 2018 by Fair Winds Press, an imprint of The Quarto Group, 100 Cummings Center, Suite 265-D, Beverly, MA 01915, USA. Photos by Jackie Sobon.
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This is a very cool recipe! I’m excited to try this out for breakfast one day 🙂
I adore polenta! I used to eat it with my Dad for Sunday lunch 🙂 I never thought of making it for breakfast, can’t wait to try it!
Never thought of using polenta like this! Can’t wait to try it!
Wow, this is a super interesting and creative breakfast idea! Looks delicious 🙂
Sweet, fresh and nourishing breakfast! I love the warm polenta with the cool berries and creamy coconut cream. Really wonderful to have in the morning.
I never thought of eating polenta for breakfast—such a cool idea!! Great alternative to oatmeal and overnight oats.
This recipe is such a great boost for breakfast! Creamy and comforting, I’m so glad this is on World of Vegan!