Polenta Pudding

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. 2
   Heat milk in top of double boiler. Slowly whisk in cornmeal. Cook; stirring constantly, until milk boils and the polenta thickens. Stir in the salt.
3. 3
   Reduce heat under boiling water to very low and cook, covered, WITHOUT disturbing, for 30 minutes. Replenish water in boiler as needed.
4. 4
   In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until light in color.
5. 5
   When polents is ready, remove from heat, stir in mascarpone until blended. Pour small amount of polenta into eggs. Whisk in remaining polenta.
6. 6
   Add lemon zest and vanilla, stir.
7. 7
   Butter a shallow 2-quart baking dish. Add pudding.
8. 8
   Bake for about 45 minutes until edges are golden brown.
9. 9
   Serve with one of the suggested toppings.