Instant Tamale Pie

from “Moosewood Restaurant New Classics” (Moosewood Cookbooks...definitely one of my favs)
Serves 4

• 1 15-ounce can pinto beans with liquid
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 12 ounces prepared polenta (preferably the cheddar-jalapeño variety)
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 1 cup grated sharp Cheddar cheese

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly oil a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or an 11-inch baking dish. Set aside.

2. Empty the beans into a large bowl, and mash with a potato masher or fork. Add corn, salsa, cumin, oregano and salt. Mix thoroughly, and set aside.

3. Slice the polenta roll into 1/4-inch-thick rounds (about the thickness of sausage patties). Arrange the rounds in the skillet, slightly overlapping. Spoon the bean mixture over the polenta, and sprinkle on the cilantro and cheese.

4. Cover and bake for 15 minutes, and then uncover and bake for15 minutes more, until the beans are bubbling and hot. For a crisp topping, place under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Moosewood recommends serving this with chips, guacamole and a garden salad.