Polenta with Fontina and Croutons

• FAST
• STAFF-FAVORITE
• VEGETARIAN

Ingredients

1. 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2. 1 1/2 cups diced (1/2 inch) crustless, day-old bread
3. 5 cups water
4. 1 1/2 cups polenta di Taragna or coarse cornmeal (10 ounces)
5. 1 cup milk, at room temperature
6. Salt and freshly ground pepper
7. 6 ounces Italian Fontina cheese, cut into 1/2-inch dice (1 cup)
8. 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (optional)

1. In a large skillet, heat the oil until shimmering. Add the diced bread and cook over moderately high heat, stirring, until golden brown, about 4 minutes. Drain the croutons on paper towels.
2. In a large saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually add the polenta, whisking until smooth. Cook over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon. Add the milk and continue cooking, stirring often, until the polenta is tender, about 20 minutes longer. Season with salt and pepper and fold in the croutons and cheese. Spoon the polenta onto plates, drizzle with the melted butter and serve at once.