Polenta

Directions

1. 1
   Bring water to boil in heavy-bottomed saucepan or small kettle.
2. 2
   Add salt to taste.
3. 3
   Gradually add cornmeal while stirring briskly with wire whisk.
4. 4
   You must stir vigorously or cornmeal will lump.
5. 5
   When mixture returns to boil continue stirring about 5 minutes.Let mixture cook for total of at least 20 minutes, stirring all around bottom of pan to prevent sticking.
6. 6
   It will be quite thick; stir often.
7. 7
   Serve polenta piping hot with any desired sauce or pour into loaf pan (9 by 5 by 2 3/4 inches) and let stand until cool.
8. 8
   Refrigerate until ready to use.
9. 9
   When chilled loaf may be sliced, arranged on baking dish, sprinkled with grated cheese and melted butter and baked in a 400-degree oven until browned.