“Nick and I try to make most things from scratch, but sometimes that just doesn’t happen. We love Mexican food, so this one of our favorite meals to prepare when we don’t have much time. Choose all-natural and preferably organic brands of the ingredients. (Read the labels.) Sometimes we prepare polenta from a mix and spread about 2 cups in the bottom of the pan, but the quickest and easiest way is to use a polenta roll. You can find them in most grocery stores now, usually in the refrigerated produce section, but ask a clerk if you have trouble locating it. Some polenta rolls are shelf-stable and are located with pasta or Italian foods. If you want to make your own salsa, see our recipe for Basic Salsa. Otherwise, buy fresh or jarred.” ~ Rebecca
| Prep Time | |
| 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | Passive Time |
| 30 minutes | 5-10 minutes to cool |
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Mexican food made simple--this recipe combines prepared foods to create a casserole reminiscent of vegetarian tamales. Choose all-natural or organic products for a more healthful version.
Tools:8-inch x 8-inch baking dish, knife and cutting board, grater
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- 1 (18-ounce) roll polenta (plain)
- 1 (15-ounce) can vegetarian chili (like Amy's)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup tortilla chips lightly crushed
- 2 cups grated Monterey Jack cheese divided
- 1 small jalapeño pepper
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray or rub oil on inside of 8-inch x 8-inch baking dish.
- Slice the polenta roll into 1/2-inch slices and layer on bottom of baking dish, overlapping or breaking the slices to make them all fit.
- Pour vegetarian chili evenly over polenta slices.
- Grate cheese and sprinkle 1 cup over chili.
- Pour salsa over the cheese, spreading out evenly.
- Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top, then cover with remaining cheese.
- Slice jalapeño pepper, if using. Remove seeds for less heat. Sprinkle slices on top.
- Cover with foil and bake in oven for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 15 minutes. Cool about 5-10 minutes before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTION:
Serve with a simple salad of greens, avocados and tomatoes.
VARIATIONS:
- Quick Tamale Casserole con Carne – Substitute 2 cups leftover Super Bowl Chili, or your favorite chili con carne.
- Substitute 1 can ranch-style beans (Like Whole Foods’ organic Ranchero beans) for the chili.
- Substitute 2 cups prepared polenta for the roll, and spread on bottom of baking dish. Polenta mixes can be found in grocery stores and some ethnic markets.
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