Do you know how to make grits? Grits are finely ground hominy, commonly used during American pioneer days and still popular in the Southern states today. Grits are often served as a hot cereal and as an accompaniment to eggs and bacon. Grits are one of those foods that you either love it or you hate it.

Grits can also be used as an ingredient in recipes from casseroles, desserts and main dishes. If you would like to learn how to make grits, then read on.

Grits come in two basic forms: slow cook grits and quick cook grits. There really isn't much, if any, difference in the taste of slow cook and quick cook grits. Slow cook takes 20 minutes of boiling to cook, while quick cook only takes 5 minutes.

Most people who have never had grits don't have a clue how to eat them. Many assume you would put milk and sugar on them like you would oatmeal or cream of wheat, but that is totally wrong. Grits have a corn taste, sort of like corn chips, which doesn't go well with sweet toppings. Grits are meant to be served as a savory hot dish. You can top them with butter or add in other things like bacon or cheese.

In theory, grits are fairly simple to make. Getting the perfect grits, however, can take some time and practice. Once you have mastered making basic grits, there are any number of tasty modifications you can make to this dish.

In order to make 4 servings of grits, you will need the following:

Grits Ingredients

• 1 cup stone ground grits (Do NOT use quick grits, though these are available)
• 4 cups of water
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
  
  

Grits Equipment

• Saucepan with lid
• Large spoon for stirring
• Kitchen timer

1. Bring the water to a boil.
2. Stir in the grits, salt and butter.
3. Bring the water to a boil again, then lower the temperature to allow the mixture to simmer.
4. Place the lid on the saucepan and allow the mixture to simmer until all of the water is absorbed and the grits become smooth and creamy. This should take around 40 minutes, so be sure to set your kitchen timer.
5. Serve!

There are a variety of ways to jazz up grits.

1. Add cheese.
2. Add milk for a creamier taste.
3. Add a meat, such as shrimp or bacon.

Fried Grits Recipe

Serve fried grits like polenta, with a topping, or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

5 cups water

salt to taste

1 cup stone ground grits

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

vegetable oil

Preparation:

Bring the water and salt to a boil in a large heavy saucepan. Add the grits and continue to simmer, stirring constantly, over medium heat until the grits are cooked and thick like mush, about 15 to 20 minutes. If necessary, add a little more boiling water.

Pour the hot grits onto a large plate to make a layer about 3/4-inch deep. Cover and let stand to cool, then refrigerate to chill thoroughly.

When the grits are cold and firm, cut into rectangular pieces. Dredge the grits pieces with flour, shaking off excess flour.

Heat the oil to a depth of 1/2-inch in a heavy skillet. Fry grits pieces until golden brown on both sides, about 4 to 5 minutes total. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt. Serve hot.

Serves 4.