The main ingredient in polenta is cornmeal, which is ground from dried corn. Traditionally a staple food in Italian cuisine, polenta is made by cooking cornmeal in water or broth, resulting in a creamy, smooth dish. It can be served soft and spoonable or allowed to cool and solidify, then sliced and grilled or fried. Polenta is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, serving as a base for sauces, stews, or topped with vegetables and cheese. It is a gluten-free option, making it suitable for many diets.