For chilly days try polenta

I began experimenting with different polenta combinations and came up with a variety of combinations. Traditional polenta takes at least 30 minutes of cooking in a copper pot over low heat with continual stirring. Fortunately, imported instant (precooked) polenta with a silkier texture has become available nationwide. This fine-grained polenta, which cooks in just a few minutes, yields an excellent flavor as well as texture.

By Diane Rossen Worthington, Tribune Media Services

January 9, 2013