Polenta with Gorgonzola Cheese

Ingredients

• 6 cups water
• 1 3/4 teaspoons salt
• 1 1/2 cups yellow cornmeal
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 3 ounces mild Gorgonzola, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• Additional salt and freshly ground black pepper, optional

Directions

Bring 6 cups of water to a boil in a heavy large saucepan. Add 1 3/4 teaspoons of salt. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal. Reduce the heat and simmer until the mixture thickens and the cornmeal is tender, stirring often, about 20 minutes. After 10 minutes, you can switch to a wooden spoon for easier stirring.

Turn off the heat. Add the butter, cream and Gorgonzola and stir until the cheese melts. Season with additional salt and pepper, to taste. Transfer the polenta to a bowl and serve.

Note: If you're making the polenta ahead of time, put it on a double boiler and cover it with plastic wrap to keep it warm.