Rustic Polenta Pudding

Ingredients

• 6 large cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large or 2 smaller fennel bulbs, finely diced
• 4-5 large leeks, sliced into rounds
• 6 fresh sage leaves, minced (or 2 teaspoons dried)
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme, minced (or 1 tablespoon dried)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 1/2 cups polenta or cornmeal
• 1/2 cup Romano or Parmesan cheese
• 6 egg whites