Gratinated Porcini Mushroom Polenta Terrine with Scamorza

Gratinated Polenta and Porcini Mushroom Terrine
Category: Appetizers
Serves: 4

This delightful recipe combines the rich, earthy flavors of porcini mushrooms with the creamy texture of polenta, all topped with melted scamorza cheese. The terrine is a perfect appetizer to serve at a dinner party or special occasion. Here’s how to make this scrumptious dish:

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Polenta
   Start by preparing the polenta. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil and add the coarse sea salt, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of black pepper. Gradually add the cornmeal to the boiling water, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the polenta thickens and becomes smooth. It should take around 20-30 minutes. Once it reaches a creamy consistency, spread the polenta in a baking dish or tray, leveling it to a thickness of about 1 cm. Allow it to cool at room temperature.

2. Prepare the Porcini Mushrooms
   While the polenta cools, clean the porcini mushrooms and slice them into medium-thick slices. Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until it turns golden. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and browned. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme.

3. Assemble the Terrine
   Once the polenta has cooled, cut it into rectangular or square portions to fit your terrine dish. Grease the bottom of the terrine with a little olive oil. Layer the bottom with the porcini mushrooms, followed by small cubes of scamorza cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a final layer of mushrooms and cheese.

4. Gratinate
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the terrine in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese has melted beautifully.

5. Serve
   Once the gratin is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, and pairs wonderfully with a light salad or crusty bread.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Enjoy your Gratinated Polenta and Porcini Mushroom Terrine as a delicious, savory appetizer that will delight your guests with its flavors and textures!