If you’ve never heard of grits before, you may be wondering what they are and why they are so popular in Southern cuisine. Grits are a traditional Southern dish made from ground corn that is cooked with water or milk to create a creamy porridge-like texture. They have been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations and are a favorite among many Southerners. In this article, we will explore the different types of grits, their taste and texture, how they differ from polenta and cornmeal, how to make them, and where to buy them.
What Are Grits?
Grits are a dish made from ground corn that is cooked with water or milk to create a creamy porridge-like texture. The corn used to make grits is usually white, but yellow corn can also be used. Grits are a popular Southern dish that is often served for breakfast, but can also be eaten as a side dish or as part of a main meal.
Grits have a long history in Southern cuisine and were originally made by Native Americans. The word “grits” comes from the Old English word “grytt,” which means a coarse meal made from grain. The popularity of grits continued to grow over the years, and they became a staple in Southern kitchens.
Varieties of Grits
There are three main types of grits: hominy grits, stone-ground grits, and instant grits.
- Hominy grits Hominy grits are made from dried corn that has been treated with an alkali solution to remove the hull and germ. This process is known as nixtamalization and is the same process used to make masa for tortillas. The resulting hominy is then ground into grits. Hominy grits have a unique flavor and texture compared to other types of grits.
- Stone-ground grits Stone-ground grits are made from whole corn that is ground between two stones. This process produces a coarser texture than other types of grits and gives them a more distinct corn flavor. Stone-ground grits take longer to cook than other types of grits, but they are worth the extra effort.
- Instant grits Instant grits are the most convenient type of grits because they cook quickly and require little preparation. They are made by precooking the corn and then dehydrating it. Instant grits have a finer texture than other types of grits and a milder flavor.
What Do Grits Taste Like?
The taste and texture of grits can vary depending on the type of grits used and how they are prepared. Grits have a mild corn flavor that is slightly sweet. The texture of grits can range from smooth and creamy to coarse and grainy, depending on how they are prepared.
Grits are a versatile dish that can be seasoned in many different ways to enhance their flavor. Some popular seasoning options include salt, butter, cheese, and hot sauce.
Grits vs. Polenta
Grits and polenta are often compared because they are both made from ground corn. However, there are some key differences between the two.
Grits are made from hominy, which has been treated with an alkali solution to remove the hull and germ. Polenta is made from yellow cornmeal. This gives polenta a more distinct corn flavor than grits.
Another difference between grits and polenta is the texture. Grits have a creamier texture than polenta, which has a coarser texture. Polenta is also often cooked with stock or broth, while grits are typically cooked with water or milk.
Polenta is a popular dish in Italian cuisine and is often served as a side dish or used as a base for stews and sauces. Grits, on the other hand, are a staple in Southern cuisine and are often served for breakfast, but can also be eaten as a side dish or as part of a main meal.
Grits vs. Cornmeal
Grits and cornmeal are both made from ground corn, but they are used differently in cooking.
Cornmeal is a fine powder that is often used as a coating for fried foods or as a thickener for sauces and stews. Cornmeal can also be used to make cornbread, corn muffins, and other baked goods.
Grits, on the other hand, are usually cooked with water or milk to create a creamy porridge-like texture. Grits can be served on their own as a side dish, or they can be used as a base for other dishes, such as shrimp and grits.
How to Make Grits
Making grits is a simple process, but it requires some attention to detail to achieve the perfect consistency.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of grits
- 4 cups of water or milk
- Salt and butter to taste
Instructions:
- Bring the water or milk to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Add the grits and a pinch of salt, stirring constantly.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan.
- Cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits have thickened and become creamy.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter to taste.
Where to Buy Grits
Grits can be found at most grocery stores and are often sold in the cereal aisle. They can also be purchased online from specialty retailers. Some popular brands of grits include Quaker, Bob’s Red Mill, and Anson Mills.
How to Store Grits
Grits should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can be kept in the pantry for up to six months, or in the refrigerator for up to a year. Once cooked, grits should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within three days.
Grits Recipes
Shrimp and Grits
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups water or milk
- Salt and butter to taste
- 1 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp. butter
- 1 tbsp. lemon juice
- 1 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Prepare the grits according to the instructions above.
- In a separate pan, sauté the garlic in butter until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp and cook until pink.
- Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and parsley and simmer for a few minutes.
- Serve the shrimp and sauce over the grits.
Cheese Grits
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups water or milk
- Salt and butter to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp. butter
Instructions:
- Prepare the grits according to the instructions above.
- Stir in the cheese, milk, and butter until melted and creamy.
- Serve as a side dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, grits are a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Whether you prefer your grits sweet or savory, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this Southern staple. So, the next time you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, give grits a try!
