President Nixons Polenta Casserole With Meat Sauce

Step 1: In large sauce pot, mix bouillon with pepper and butter and bring to a boil.

Step 2: Add cornmeal, stirring with a spoon (whisk), cook stirring constantly over low heat for 10 minutes or until thick.

Step 3: Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Brush a baking casserole with oil and spread out the polenta evenly, about 1/2 inch thick.

Step 5: Sprinkle with 3 tablespoons of the cheese.

Step 6: Now let cool, then chill in refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until firm to the touch.

Step 7: Use a cookie cutter to make 12 (2 inch) rounds (or squares).

Step 8: Arrange the rounds in a buttered casserole dish.

Step 9: Spoon on the meat sauce, sprinkle with remaining cheese.

Step 10: Bake at 375 for 30 minutes.

Step 11: Meat sauce:

Step 12: Melt butter in a large sauce pan and add onion, garlic and saute lightly.

Step 13: Add meat, salt & pepper, oregano, and bay leaf.

Step 14: Cook on medium heat until meat is browned.

Step 15: Add wine, tomatoes, and tomato sauce, simmer covered for 45 minutes stirring often.

Step 16: Remove bay leaf.