Basics: Soft Polenta

By amaliana

Ingredients

• Coarse salt and fresh ground pepper
• 3/4 cup yellow cornmeal or polenta(not quick cooking)
• 1/4 cup finely grated cheese(Parmesan, Asiago, or sharp Cheddar)
• 1 tablespoon butter

Preparation

Step 1

1. In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups water, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/8 teapoon pepper to a boil over high heat. Whisking constantly, very gradually add the cornmeal in a thin stream, whisking until smooth before adding more.

2. Reduce the heat to medium-low; simmer, whisking often, until thickened, 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from the heat; stir in the cheese and butter until smooth. Serve immediately.