Recipe copyright 2000, Mario Batali. All rights reserved.

1/4 pound pancetta, cut 1/4-inch dice
Scant 1/2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
2 squabs, roasted and cooled, meat removed and shredded
Salt and pepper
1/2 pound cornmeal
1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, plus 1 small chunk, for grating

In a 12 to 14-inch saute pan, combine the pancetta and the olive oil and cook over medium heat until the pancetta is browned and the fat has been rendered. Drain the fat and add the squabs, seasoned with and salt and pepper, to taste. Cook over high heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and cooked through.

Bring 1 liter of water to a boil. Stir in cornmeal in a thin stream and continue to stir until polenta comes to a boil. Stir in the pancetta and piccioni and continue to cook 5 to 6 minutes. Stir in 1/4 cup cheese. Turn polenta out into a cutting board. Allow to cool and solidify slightly, then serve, using a string to cut it. Grate cheese over and serve.

Yield: 12 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Inactive Prep Time: 20 minutes
Ease of preparation: intermediate