SOUTHERN GRITS
Southern Grits are a creamy, comforting dish from ground corn, celebrated for their rich texture and flavor.
This beloved Southern staple is perfect as a side or a hearty breakfast, showcasing the simplicity of Southern cooking.
With their versatility, grits can be served sweet or savory, making them a delightful addition to any meal.
Why This Recipe
This Southern Grits recipe is ideal for those who appreciate classic comfort food that is filling and delicious.
The creamy texture and subtle flavor of the grits serve as the perfect base for toppings like cheese, shrimp, or sausage.
Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main meal, this recipe will surely become a family favorite.
About This Recipe
Grits are made from ground corn and are a staple in Southern cuisine, often enjoyed for breakfast or alongside meats and vegetables.
This recipe focuses on creating a creamy base, enhanced with butter and cheese, for a truly satisfying dish that complements various flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Freshly cracked black pepper (for serving)
Prep Time and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: 35-45 minutes
Estimated Calories
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 200 calories (without cheese)
Cooking Instructions
1. Boil the Liquid
Bring the water or chicken broth to a boil in a large saucepan. Add salt to the boiling liquid.
2. Cook the Grits
Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are thick and creamy.
3. Add Butter and Cheese
Once the grits are cooked, remove them from heat. Stir in the butter until melted, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until creamy and smooth.
4. Serve
Spoon the grits into bowls and season with freshly cracked black pepper. Serve hot as a side dish or topped with your favorite ingredients.
FAQs
You can use quick-cooking grits, but the cooking time will be shorter. Follow the package instructions for the best results.
To achieve creamier grits, use milk or cream instead of water or broth or add more butter during cooking.
Southern grits can be topped with various ingredients such as shrimp, sausage, gravy, or even poached eggs for breakfast.
Yes, grits can be made ahead and reheated. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to restore creaminess.
Conclusion
Southern Grits are a timeless comfort food that can elevate any meal with their creamy texture and versatility.
This recipe will surely delight and satisfy you, whether served as a side or topped with savory ingredients.
Enjoy this classic dish as part of your Southern culinary experience!
SOUTHERN GRITS
Ingredients
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer the grits for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and creamy. If using, stir in heavy cream for extra richness.
- Once the grits are cooked, stir in butter, cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese is melted and the grits are smooth.
- Spoon the grits into bowls and enjoy as a side dish or as a base for shrimp, sausage, or other toppings!
