White beans and nutritional yeast give this polenta a creamy and cheesy taste, without the dairy. Add some roasted broccoli and a drizzle of chili oil, and you've got an easy, filling meat-free dinner!

Photography Credit: Erin Alderson

The cooler months always bring the comfort food out in full force. Pasta and casseroles are usually the big hit in my family. But for me, it’s all about the creamy polenta. During fall and winter, I’ve been known to eat a bowl that consists only of creamy, cheesy polenta.

Occasionally, I add vegetables, but the comfort food really is in the polenta base. In my book, there’s nothing quite as satisfying.

Our Favorite Videos Get Recipe »

HOW TO MAKE CREAMY VEGAN POLENTA

Of course, if you’re looking to make creamy polenta and you’re vegan, some items have to change. Cheese is out of the question. You could use vegan butter and cheeses, but I rarely have those items on hand since I don’t always cook vegan.

So I turn to one of my favorite vegan combinations: beans and nutritional yeast.

What Is Nutritional Yeast?

Nutritional yeast is amazing primarily for its nutty, cheese-like flavor. It is often used in vegan cooking because of its flavor profile and nutritional benefits.

Nutritional yeast is yeast that has been deactivated (unlike baker’s yeast, which is still active). While it’s not a 1:1 substitute for cheese, the flavor profile is similar enough that it passes. Think of it as similar to grated Parmesan.

Nutritional yeast is great to use as a popcorn topping or in vegan cheese-like recipes, like mac and cheese. You can find it in the health food section or the bulk bins of most gourmet grocery stores, such as Whole Foods, or you can buy it online .

Beans Make Polenta Creamy!

As for the beans, I love the protein boost they give the polenta base. White beans are great because their texture purees into a smooth cream-like texture that blends perfectly into the polenta. All it takes is a solid whiz in a blender with a bit of olive oil.

And of course, if you’re not vegan, you’re welcome to add cheese or butter to your polenta! Here’s the recipe for how to make basic creamy polenta.

WHAT TO SERVE ON TOP OF POLENTA

This polenta is great with most of the veggies in the brassicas family. Roast up broccoli florets, as I’ve done here, or swap in cauliflower or Brussels sprouts. These all make great additions to the polenta bowl.

I also like to add a drizzle of chili oil over the whole bowl. It’s easy to bring together—it’s a simple infusion of olive oil and chili flakes over low heat. This chili oil is also great as a topping for grain bowls, pizza, and morning eggs—really, any place where you might use traditional hot sauce. However, if you don’t want to go through the trouble of making it, just drizzle the oil and sprinkle the chili flakes on top.

MORE WAYS TO ENJOY POLENTA!