Polenta Cake with Orange Blossom Yogurt, Berries, and Pistachios
4.4
(2)
Editor's note: The recipe below is part of a healthy and delicious spa menu developed exclusively for Epicurious by Chris Miller, executive chef at Como Shambhala Estate at Begawan Giri in Bali.
In this streamlined dessert, summer berries are served atop grilled polenta with a simple garnish of strained yogurt and pistachios. The key to success here is using high-quality ingredients: ripe fruit at its seasonal peak, a full-flavored honey (Chef Miller prefers rambutan, a Javanese variety with a fruity, citrusy flavor and amber color), and delicate orange blossom water. If you'd like, try garnishing the dessert with a chiffonade of fresh basil or mint.
Ingredients
Special equipment:
Preparation
Step 1
Line fine-mesh sieve with double layer cheesecloth and set over medium bowl. Transfer yogurt to lined sieve, then pull up and tie together edges of cheesecloth, wrapping yogurt into bundle. Cover with plastic wrap and allow to drain in refrigerator at least 8 hours or overnight. (The yogurt can be prepared 2 days ahead. Once drained, transfer to airtight container and refrigerate, covered.)
Step 2
In medium heavy saucepan, combine milk and sea salt with 3/4 cup water. Bring to boil over high heat, then gradually whisk in polenta, until smooth. Reduce heat to low and cook, uncovered, whisking often, until very thick, about 25 minutes. Spread into 8- x 8-inch baking dish and cool slightly. Cover and chill until firm, at least 6 hours or overnight. (Polenta can be prepared ahead and refrigerated, covered, up to 1 day.)
Step 3
Bring small pan of water to boil. Add pistachios and boil, uncovered, 1 minute. Drain, then roll between towels until brown papery skins are removed. Set pistachios aside.
Step 4
If using charcoal grill, open vents on bottom, then light charcoal and preheat grill to moderately high. If using gas grill, preheat burners on high with hood closed 10 minutes, then turn down to moderately high. Brush grill rack with oil.
Step 5
Cut polenta into 4 rectangles and grill, turning once, until heated through and crusty, about 3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and slice each rectangle in half diagonally to produce 2 wedges.
Step 6
While polenta is on grill, transfer thickened yogurt to small bowl, discarding liquid, and stir in orange blossom water and honey.
Step 7
Divide polenta wedges among 4 plates, top with yogurt, and garnish with strawberries and pistachios. Serve immediately.
