Creamy Polenta with Mascarpone

Polenta is one of my favorite foods—it’s Italy’s version of cornmeal mush. Like risotto, it requires some attention during its slow cooking, but these are moments I enjoy for quiet contemplation. As I’ve mentioned elsewhere in these pages, the Union Square Cafe in New York City, with its gifted chef/co-owner Michael Romano and innovative co-owner Danny Meyer, is one of my favorite spots for a le