Step #3 Scrape mixture into a buttered 8-inch square baking pan and, spread level, with a spatula that has been dipped in water, 3/4 to 1 inch thick.
Step #4 Chill until very firm, at least 1 1/2 hrs & up to 1 day.
Step #5 Run a knife around edges of pan to loosen polenta, invert onto a board, & lift off pan.
Step #6 Trim off any rounded edges from polenta (save trimmings for another use).
Step #7 Cut polenta in half to form two equal rectangles (wipe knife with a wet paper towel as needed to prevent sticking), then cut each half into strips 1/2 inch wide & 3 to 4 inches long to produce thick fries (or cut strips in half through wider side to produce thin, square-cut fries).
Step #8 Trim away uneven edges.
Step #9 Spread about 1/2 c flour on a rimmed plate & roll each polenta strip lightly in flour.
Step #10 Pour 3 inches oil into a deep-fryer set at 375° (or medium-high) or a deep, heavy, 3- to 4-quart pan over medium-high heat.
Step #11 When oil reaches 375°, working in batches, lower polenta strips into oil in a deep-fry basket or a few at a time with a slotted spoon; fry until crisp & golden, 7 to 9 mins.
Step #12 Remove with basket or slotted spoon.
Step #13 Drain briefly on paper towels, then transfer, in a single layer, to baking pans & keep warm in a 200° oven.
Step #14 Sprinkle top fries with salt & serve this with spicy tomato dipping sauce.
Enjoy the Polenta Fries with Spicy Tomato Dipping Sauce recipe