Using Polenta

MikeBTexas · Mar 29, 2014

When using polenta as a sub for flaked corn can I add it directly to the grain and then mash?

I searched and found several different ways of doing it. Some say to add it directly, some say do a cereal mash and others say cook first with plenty of water.

So are they all correct?

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Hobanon · Mar 29, 2014

It depends on how processed the polenta is. If its "quick-cooking" at all and the directions/recipe says you can make it in the microwave, then its my understanding you can add it straight to the mash (a la quick grits, minute rice, quick oats).

If they're stone ground grits/polenta that have to be cooked in a pan on the stove top, I think you need to do so and make the cereal mash and convert the starches (??) before adding it to your mash grains.

MikeBTexas · Mar 29, 2014

That's the problem. It's when you say "I think". I guess I'm looking for somebody that has used coarse ground corn/polenta before and had good results.

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pjj2ba · Mar 31, 2014

If the polenta package indicates that stuff inside has not be pre-treated at all, then it will need to be cooked first.

I believe the stuff in plastic tubes is typically pre-cooked. If it is dry, chances are it is not, and will require cooking first

highgravitybacon · Mar 31, 2014

MikeBTexas said:
That's the problem. It's when you say "I think". I guess I'm looking for somebody that has used coarse ground corn/polenta before and had good results.

I have used corn meal. 20% by weight in a cream ale. Bobs Red Mill or some such stuff. You need to be careful about what you buy. First, it needs to be degerminated. So no whole grain. Second, it needs to be free of all the "fortified" stuff. e.g. all the added vitamins and iron added to the supermarket brands. Third, you need to precook it. Fourth, you need to get fresh stuff. So check the dates on the bags.

The scope of precooking it is too much to write, but either perform a cereal mash or just cook it until tender and add to the mash. When I used degerminated cornmeal, it fell apart right in the mash and made a very corny beer.

Corn has many options people look past. Polenta is a nice way to get Super Corn Fed in your beer. But I still think flakes are way easier and almost as corny.