Soft Polenta

Directions

1. 1
   In a 4-quart heavy saucepan bring water to a boil with salt and bay leaves and gradually whisk in cornmeal in a thin stream.
2. 2
   Cook mixture over moderate heat, whisking, 2 minutes and cover pan.
3. 3
   Simmer polenta, covered, over low heat, stirring for 1 minute after every 10 minutes of cooking, 45 minutes total.
4. 4
   Remove pan from heat and discard bay leaves.