Polenta is one of the most versatile but under-utilised staples in the modern kitchen.  It is great value for money.   Polenta is a gluten-free maize meal typical of the North of Italy and the mountainous regions of the Alps.  It can substitute either rice or mash in saucy dishes or even bread or potatoes.  Traditionally polenta would take 40 minutes of constant stirring to break down and be ready but with a quick polenta you only need 3 to 5 minutes.