5 cups water (Polenta)
1/4 tsp. salt, or to taste (Polenta)
3/4 cup corn grits or polenta (Polenta)
1/4 cup cornmeal (Polenta)
1 Tbsp. unsalted butter (Polenta)
1 bunch broccoli rabi, rinsed, ends trimmed, and cut into 1-inch pieces (include stems, leaves, and small florets) (Broccoli Rabe Sauce)
1 Tbsp. olive oil (Broccoli Rabe Sauce)
1 shallot, thinly sliced (Broccoli Rabe Sauce)
3 garlic cloves, minced (Broccoli Rabe Sauce)
1/4 to 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes (Broccoli Rabe Sauce)
1 (28-oz.) can whole tomatoes, drained (Broccoli Rabe Sauce)
1 (15-oz.) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained (Broccoli Rabe Sauce)
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese, for sprinkling