Before we dive into the creamy goodness of grits, let’s talk about what goes well with this dish. Creamy grits can be enjoyed alongside a variety of flavorful companions that enhance their delicious texture and taste. Here are a few favorites:
- Shrimp: A classic combination. Sauté shrimp with garlic, lemon, and spices. Serve it over a generous bed of grits, and you have a meal straight from the South.
- Southern Sausage: Crumbled breakfast sausage adds a savory touch. The spices in the sausage pair wonderfully with the subtle flavor of the grits.
- Roasted Vegetables: Tossed asparagus or bell peppers in olive oil, salt, and pepper and roasted to perfection. They add both color and nutrition to your meal.
Pairing these options with creamy grits turns this simple dish into a feast.
Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of creamy grits. Yes, I know — grits can sometimes get a bad rap, often dismissed as mere breakfast fare.
But let me tell you, when done right, creamy grits can stand proudly as a star dish for any meal. Rich, satisfying, and versatile, grits are a canvas ready to be painted on with delicious flavors. Whether you choose to stick with classic accompaniments or venture into the wild side with different toppings, you’re in for a real treat.
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What is a Creamy Grits Recipe?
Creamy grits are a Southern staple made from ground corn, typically served as a side dish or breakfast meal. When cooked until creamy, they become silky and smooth, often enriched with cream, butter, or cheese.
This dish has deep roots in American culinary history and captures the heart of many homes.
Why This Recipe Works
This creamy grits recipe is not only easy to follow but also ensures a delightful experience for your palate. Here’s why I’m confident you’ll love it:
- Quick Preparation: You won’t spend hours in the kitchen. The entire process is quick, with minimal hands-on time. You’ll be ready to dig in within thirty minutes.
- Simple Ingredients: With items most people already have in their pantries, this recipe simplifies grocery shopping. You will need grits, cream, butter, milk, and water.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of butter and cream gives grits an unforgettable richness. It makes every bite melt in your mouth while adding depth to the flavor.
- Versatility: You can enjoy creamy grits as a side dish or dress them up with toppings, allowing flexibility in your cooking. Dump on shrimp, toss in veggies, or sprinkle on cheese — the options are endless.
Now that you’ve heard the why, let’s focus on what you’ll need to create this dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
Gather these simple ingredients before you start:
- 1 cup old-fashioned grits: For that classic texture.
- 1/2 cup cream: Divided to mix in both while cooking and for topping.
- 1/4 cup butter: Adds richness and lends a silky mouthfeel.
- 1.5 cups milk: To ensure the grits turn creamy.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning — don’t skip these!
- 1.5 cups water: Blending with milk helps achieve the right consistency.
These ingredients can lead the charge toward a comforting bowl of creamy grits.
How to Make This Creamy Grits Recipe?
Let’s break down the steps. Follow these instructions, and you’ll have creamy perfection in no time.
Step 1: Boil the Water and Milk
To start, you’ll want to grab a medium saucepan. Pour in 1.5 cups of water and 1.5 cups of milk. Add a pinch of salt to the mixture.
Bring the water and milk to a gentle boil. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This step is crucial since it sets the foundation for the grits.
Step 2: Add the Grits
Once your milk is boiling, add 1 cup of old-fashioned grits slowly. Stir continuously to keep them from clumping. Turn the heat down to low, and let them simmer for about 20-25 minutes. You want them to absorb that liquid perfectly to become tender and creamy.
Step 3: Incorporate Butter and Cream
After the grits have become tender, add 1/4 cup of butter and 1/2 cup of cream into the pot. Stir until everything melts and combines smoothly. This will elevate the dish to a whole new level.
Step 4: Season to Taste
Taste your grits. Add more salt and pepper depending on your preference. This step is crucial. Good seasoning can take your dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Now that you have your creamy grits ready, it’s time to serve. Plop them into a bowl and top with your choice of accompaniments, whether it’s sautéed shrimp or roasted veggies. Dig in and enjoy every comforting bite!
Tips & Tricks
- Use old-fashioned grits instead of quick-cooking ones. The texture difference is worth it.
- Stir frequently while cooking. This prevents clumpiness and ensures even cooking.
- Experiment with toppings. Don’t hesitate to try different flavors, like sautéed mushrooms or cheese.
- Add broth instead of water for an added depth of flavor. Chicken or vegetable broth works nicely.
- Make in advance. Grits thicken as they cool. Store leftovers in the fridge, and reheat with some extra milk for the best results.
Nutrition Information
A serving of creamy grits (approximately 1 cup) contains:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 5g
These numbers can vary based on the exact ingredients and quantities used, particularly if you decide to add toppings.
How Do You Store the Leftovers?
Storing your leftovers is easy! Once your creamy grits have cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a saucepan on low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
What Sides Would Complement Creamy Grits Recipe?
Adding sides can turn a simple bowl of grits into a full meal. Here are three excellent companions:
- Fried Chicken: Juicy and crispy fried chicken paired with grits creates a balanced meal. The richness of the chicken complements the creaminess of the grits.
- Collard Greens: This Southern classic adds texture and a healthier profile to your plate. The slight bitterness of the greens contrasts beautifully with sweet grits.
- Poached Eggs: Egg yolks provide a rich flavor that mingles well with creamy textures. Poached eggs on top of grits bring a breakfast twist to dinner!
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?
Sometimes, you might not have all the ingredients on hand. Here are some alternatives:
- Grits: If grits aren’t available, try polenta as a substitute. It holds a similar texture and flavor.
- Cream: Use whole milk or almond milk instead of the cream for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that it might lack some richness.
- Butter: Coconut oil or olive oil can serve instead of butter, making it dairy-free. Those options also infuse unique flavors.
- Milk: Any type of non-dairy milk such as oat, soy, or almond can replace cow’s milk. They will alter the flavor slightly, but it’s still delicious.
Conclusion
There you have it — my take on the humble yet delicious creamy grits recipe. This Southern classic holds a special place in my heart, and I hope you find joy in making and sharing it as well.
Don’t let its simplicity fool you; with the right ingredients and techniques, creamy grits can be the star of any meal. Enjoy pairing them with your favorite dishes and exploring the vast world of flavors. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Grits – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes
Description
Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of creamy grits. Yes, I know — grits can sometimes get a bad rap, often dismissed as mere breakfast fare.
But let me tell you, when done right, creamy grits can stand proudly as a star dish for any meal. Rich, satisfying, and versatile, grits are a canvas ready to be painted on with delicious flavors. Whether you choose to stick with classic accompaniments or venture into the wild side with different toppings, you’re in for a real treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Let’s break down the steps. Follow these instructions, and you’ll have creamy perfection in no time.
Step 1: Boil the Water and Milk
-
To start, you’ll want to grab a medium saucepan. Pour in 1.5 cups of water and 1.5 cups of milk. Add a pinch of salt to the mixture.
-
Bring the water and milk to a gentle boil. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This step is crucial since it sets the foundation for the grits.
Step 2: Add the Grits
-
Once your milk is boiling, add 1 cup of old-fashioned grits slowly. Stir continuously to keep them from clumping. Turn the heat down to low, and let them simmer for about 20-25 minutes. You want them to absorb that liquid perfectly to become tender and creamy.
Step 3: Incorporate Butter and Cream
-
After the grits have become tender, add 1/4 cup of butter and 1/2 cup of cream into the pot. Stir until everything melts and combines smoothly. This will elevate the dish to a whole new level.
Step 4: Season to Taste
-
Taste your grits. Add more salt and pepper depending on your preference. This step is crucial. Good seasoning can take your dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Step 5: Serve Warm
-
Now that you have your creamy grits ready, it’s time to serve. Plop them into a bowl and top with your choice of accompaniments, whether it’s sautéed shrimp or roasted veggies. Dig in and enjoy every comforting bite!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 200kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8g13%
- Total Carbohydrate 32g11%
- Protein 5g10%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use old-fashioned grits instead of quick-cooking ones. The texture difference is worth it.
- Stir frequently while cooking. This prevents clumpiness and ensures even cooking.
- Experiment with toppings. Don’t hesitate to try different flavors, like sautéed mushrooms or cheese.
- Add broth instead of water for an added depth of flavor. Chicken or vegetable broth works nicely.
Make in advance. Grits thicken as they cool. Store leftovers in the fridge, and reheat with some extra milk for the best results.
