Ingredients

• 4 1/4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 1/4 cup cornmeal or polenta
• 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1/2 stick butter (4 tablespoons), cubed
• 1/2 tablespoon chopped thyme leaves
• 1/2 tablespoon chopped basil leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese, garnish

Instructions

1. 1. Bring 4 1/2 cups water to a boil in a medium pot, adding salt.
2. 2. Slowly whisk the polenta in and reduce heat to low.
3. 3. Stir polenta frequently for 12 - 15 minutes until cornmeal is thick and soft, then remove from heat.
4. 4. Add the cheese, milk, and butter, then stir well until cheese and butter have melted.
5. 5. Stir in thyme, basil, and crushed red pepper, and mix well.
6. 6. Serve with freshly grated parmesan cheese on top.