Crispy Polenta Veggie Nuggets

Name: Crispy Polenta Veggie Nuggets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup polenta; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell pepper, spinach, carrot); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating); Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love experimenting with ingredients in my kitchen, and these Crispy Polenta Veggie Nuggets are a result of that creativity. The satisfying crunch outside perfectly contrasts with the soft, flavorful center filled with vibrant veggies. They make a fantastic snack or appetizer. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they’re also a fun way to sneak in some extra vegetables. Whether served with a dip or on their own, these nuggets have quickly become a go-to for gatherings and meal prep. Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:22:14.742Z

Making these Crispy Polenta Veggie Nuggets was such a delightful experience! I remember the first time I combined creamy polenta with a mix of colorful vegetables—each bite bursting with flavor. The trick is to let the polenta cool completely before forming the nuggets, which helps them hold their shape while being fried to crispy perfection.

I've learned that using a variety of veggies can really elevate the flavor profile. For this batch, I included bell peppers and spinach, but feel free to get creative! One tip is to ensure well-drained vegetables to prevent excess moisture, ensuring each nugget becomes beautifully crispy.

        Why You'll Love These Nuggets
        Deliciously crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside
Perfectly seasoned with fresh herbs and spices
Versatile as a snack, appetizer, or part of a main dish

      

Mastering the Polenta Texture

Getting the texture of your polenta just right is crucial for crispy nuggets. When cooking the polenta, stir continuously to prevent clumping and ensure it becomes smooth and glossy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. If it becomes too thick too quickly, you can stir in a little extra vegetable broth to achieve a pourable consistency. The ideal polenta will hold together when cooled but still be soft enough to blend well with your veggies and seasonings.

To successfully incorporate the mixed vegetables into the polenta, ensure that they are finely chopped. This helps evenly distribute the flavors and keeps each nugget balanced. You can use various vegetables, but avoid those with high moisture content, like tomatoes, as they can make the mixture soggy. If you're looking for extra crunch, consider adding finely shredded carrots or zucchini, but remember to squeeze out excess moisture.

Perfecting the Nugget Shape

For easily shaped nuggets, make sure your polenta mixture is sufficiently chilled before cutting. The chilling process not only firms up the polenta but also makes it easier to handle. Use a sharp knife to cut uniform shapes, ideally about 2-3 inches in size, to ensure even cooking. If you prefer a different shape, feel free to get creative—try using cookie cutters for fun forms that will appeal to kids or add a burst of color to your platter.

Coating the nuggets in breadcrumbs is vital for that crispy texture. For a twist, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of traditional ones; they will give you an extra crunch. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Make sure to press the coating firmly onto the nuggets before frying to prevent it from falling off during cooking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful nuggets:

For the Nuggets

1 cup polenta
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell pepper, spinach, carrot)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
Oil for frying

Make sure to have all ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Crispy Polenta Veggie Nuggets:

Prepare Polenta

In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Gradually add polenta while stirring constantly until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.

Add Veggies and Seasoning

Stir in the mixed vegetables, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.

Chill Mixture

Spread the polenta mixture into a greased dish. Let it cool at room temperature for at least 20 minutes, then refrigerate for another 30 minutes to firm up.

Shape Nuggets

Once cooled, cut the polenta into nugget shapes. Coat each piece in breadcrumbs.

Fry Nuggets

In a frying pan, heat oil over medium heat. Fry the nuggets in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Serve your crispy nuggets hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For even crunchier nuggets, double-coat them in breadcrumbs by dipping them in an egg wash before coating again. Experiment with different herbs and spices in the polenta for unique flavor variations!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Crispy Polenta Veggie Nuggets can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they become crispy again. If you have leftovers that you need to store, place them in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb any moisture. This will help maintain their crispiness during storage.

If you'd like to prepare these nuggets well ahead of time, consider freezing them before frying. Simply follow the recipe up to the frying step, then place the breaded nuggets on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, you can cook them straight from frozen, just add a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.

Serving Suggestions and Dips

These nuggets are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a larger spread. For a fun and colorful presentation, serve them with a variety of dips such as marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or a tangy yogurt-based dip. You can sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a burst of color and flavor, enhancing their appeal at gatherings or parties.

For a complete meal, consider pairing the nuggets with a fresh salad. A zesty lemon and olive oil dressing complements the savory nuggets beautifully. You can also add them to a grain bowl with quinoa or brown rice, along with some roasted vegetables and avocado for a nutritious and hearty dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake these nuggets instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes; just spray them with a little oil for crispiness.

→ What vegetables can I use?

Feel free to use any veggies you like! Zucchini, broccoli, or peas work great as well.

→ Can I make these nuggets ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and shape the nuggets, then refrigerate them. Fry them just before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.