Basic Soft Polenta Recipe

Directions

1. 1
   Pour 4 c. of water into a medium heavy saucepan set over high heat.
2. 2
   When the water comes to a boil, add in 1 tsp.
3. 3
   of salt and lower the heat to medium.
4. 4
   Whisk in the cornmeal in a slow, steady stream.
5. 5
   This should take almost 1 minute.
6. 6
   Make sure to whisk the cornmeal continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
7. 7
   Continue whisking as the cornmeal comes back to a boil.
8. 8
   Simmer, whisking constantly, till the polenta starts to thicken, 1 to 2 min.
9. 9
   Reduce the heat till the polenta is at the barest simmer.
10. 10
    Cover the pot and cook very slowly, stirring with a long handled wooden spoon every 10 min or possibly so, till the cornmeal loses its raw flavor, 35 to 40 min.
11. 11
    Stir in the butter till melted and add in more salt if needed.
12. 12
    Transfer to a serving bowl and serve immediately.