Step 1

Bring 4 cups of water in a large, deep saucepan bring to a rapid simmer. Turn the heat down to low. Pour the cornmeal in slowly, whisking as you pour it in to make sure no lumps form.

Step 2

Simmer over very low heat for 15 to 20 minutes (or, quick-cooking polenta only takes about 3 minutes) Whisk occasionally The polenta should be smooth and thick. If the polenta is spattering while being cooked, cover with a lid, keeping it ajar. If you’d like a thinner polenta, add one additional cup of water, whisk in, and cook 2 to 3 minutes longer.

Step 3

When done, stir in the margarine until melted. Serve at once in bowls and top as suggested below.