Comte Polenta

Directions

1. 1
   Grease a 9-inch square baking dish.
2. 2
   Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan.
3. 3
   Slowly add the cornmeal, whisking constantly, and bring to a boil over moderately high heat.
4. 4
   Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring often with a wooden spoon, until the polenta is very thick, about 15 minutes.
5. 5
   Stir in the cheese and butter and season with salt and pepper.
6. 6
   Scrape the polenta into the prepared dish and smooth the top, using a rubber spatula.
7. 7
   Press a piece of plastic wrap directly on the polenta and chill until firm, at least 2 hours.
8. 8
   Cut the polenta into 8 rectangles.
9. 9
   Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet.
10. 10
    Add the polenta pieces and fry over moderate heat until golden, about 5 minutes per side.
11. 11
    Drain the polenta on paper towels and serve at once.