How Do You Make Polenta With Pancetta And Chard?
This is an excellent side dish for any kind of braised red meat. Serves six. In a medium-size sauté pan, heat the oil, shallots and pancetta over medium heat. Cook until the pancetta gets slightly crispy. Add 1/4 c. broth and red pepper flakes to the pan; then add the chard. Stir and turn the chard until it wilts slightly, then remove from the heat. Bring the remaining broth, cream, salt and pepper to a boil in a 4-quart saucepan. Using a wooden spoon, slowly stir in the polenta. Lower the heat to medium and cook, stirring frequently, for about 15 minutes. Stir in the chard and pancetta mixture. At this point the polenta should have a smooth texture when you taste it. If the polenta seems a little grainy, add a small amount of additional broth or water and continue to cook and stir until smooth. Stir in the butter and cheese and serve.
