How on earth do I cook polenta?

[Whatheactualchuff]

Going to cook polenta for the first time tonight, looked at the instructions of this Sainsbury’s polenta and it tells me how much water but not actually how much polenta to add.
Before a disaster unfolds, could somebody please advise?
Also all recipes online say cook for at least 30mins, why is the cooking time on this so suspiciously short?

Many thanks

Cooking time is short because it's pre-cooked (clue is in the title!)
I imagine they mean you to use the whole packet.

Open bin and throw away and buy something with a nice texture that has flavour. It is without doubt disgusting.

Cooking instructions: Hob
Before cooking: Use 200mls of boiling water for every 50g of Polenta. Add the Polenta gradually to the boiling water, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon or whisk. During cooking: Bring back to the boil and simmer for 1 minute for soft polenta. Cook for 3-5mins for a firmer texture. Season to taste After cooking: Check food is piping hot. All cooking appliances vary. This is a guide only.
Warnings:
Safety: Be aware Polenta tends to bubble violently when cooking.

it can be a good ingredient for texture in cakes!

For example… https://www.nigella.com/recipes/lemon-polenta-cake

You can get coarse and fine polenta. I get mine from a World Food shop, cheaper and you get more than supermarkets. I beat in grated Parmesan but usually grana padano after cooking. It's a great alternative to pasta when having Bolognese.

I use stock instead of water for more flavour.

Which recipe says it takes 30 mins?

This.
it was invented by the devil. Totally 🤮

Yes to adding stock and parmesan for added flavour and being careful of volcanic bubbling. I then spread it out into a lined baking tray and grill it so you get crunchy crust as well as smoothness. I'd assume 400ml is the quantity for the entire packet but keep an eye on it as you may need extra.

It’s pre- cooked which is why you need less water than people are suggesting above. It’s also why you need to cook it for less time.

I wouldn’t add more than the 400ml to all of the polenta. If you then need to thin it out you can add more

Ok, thanks all, polenta mystery solved.
Maybe we’ll have mash instead…

Best use for polenta is for making crispy roast potatoes! Coat your par boiled potatoes in the got fat then sprinkle over polenta before putting back in the oven to roast.