Black Olive Polenta With Shiitakes, Garlic And Rosemary

Recipe Instructions * Note: See the "Tapenade (Black Olive Paste)" recipe which is included in this collection. Bring 2 1/2 cups water to boil. Add polenta in thin stream, stirring constantly. When polenta is all in, lower heat to simmer. Add Tapenade and salt and cook 5 to 7 minutes until very thick, or the consistency of thick oatmeal. Pour the polenta out into a clean but not greased 8- by 12-inch brownie pan, smoothing over the top with the back of a spoon to create even thickness. Set aside to cool 1/2 hour. When cool, cut into 8 wedges. Preheat broiler. In a 12- to 14-inch saute pan, heat 4 ounces olive oil over moderate heat. Add garlic and saute until just lightly browned. Add shiitakes and, stirring quickly to move the garlic off the pan bottom, saute 3 to 4 minutes until lightly browned. Add wine and rosemary and reduce by one half. The mixture should be loose but not thin like a sauce. Set aside off heat. Place polenta under broiler and cook until hot but not darkened, or about 3 minutes per side. Bring shiitake mixture up to a boil over moderate heat. As an entree, place two wedges on each of four plates and divide shiitakes, spooning over top. Serve immediately. This recipe yields 4 entree or 8 appetizer servings.