Creative Ways to Cook Grits: Recipes, Tips and Tricks

Exploring the Versatile World of Grits

Grits have long been a staple of Southern cuisine. These boiled ground corn kernels can take on many delicious flavors and provide a foundation for creative recipes beyond the classic shrimp and cheese versions.

By mastering some basic grits techniques, you can craft your own hot, creamy bowls at breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Keep reading to learn insider tips and simple ways to start cooking up this comforting carb!

Types of Grits

The first step is selecting your grits. Instant and old-fashioned (or regular) are the two main kinds:

• Instant grits - Pre-cooked, dried grits that reconstitute quickly in hot water, about 5 minutes.
• Old-fashioned grits - Whole grain kernels that require simmering for at least 20 minutes to soften and absorb liquids.

Instant cook faster but many grits purists consider old-fashioned to have superior texture and flavor. Try both to decide which you prefer!

Look for Quality

Not all grits are created equal. Opt for stone ground when possible for smoother, heartier grits minus pesky hulls or germ. Reputable artisanal brands like Weisenberger use quality ingredients and traditional techniques.

Store dried grits in airtight containers in a cool, dark space to preserve freshness and shelf life. Cooked grits should be eaten right away or refrigerated for 2-3 days maximum before use.

Cooking Method Basics

Follow ratio guidelines for water or milk and grits then stir while simmering until thickened. Removing from heat once desired creaminess is reached allows carryover cooking to finish without risking overcooking into paste.

Here is an easy formula for a humble bowl of Weisenberger grits:

• 1 cup grits
• 3-4 cups liquid (water, broth, milk, or combo)
• Pinch of salt
• Dash of pepper or preferred spices
• 2-3 Tbsp butter, margarine, or oil

Combine in saucepan and simmer 20-30 minutes for old-fashioned grits, less time for quick grains, stirring occasionally. Thats it!

Innovative Mix-Ins

Once you master basic grits, its time to incorporate other ingredients. Get creative with proteins, vegetables, cheeses, herbs and more. Here are just a few mouthwatering ideas:

Savory Stir-Ins

Take your grits meal to the next level with satisfying add-ins like:

• Crumbled bacon or sausage
• Diced ham or pulled pork
• Sauted mushrooms, onions, or peppers
• Roasted garlic or tomatoes
• Shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or Gouda

Introduce the stir-ins near the end of cooking so they heat through without getting overdone.

Seafood Sensations

Grits make a marvelous base for succulent shellfish and flaky white fish:

• Shrimp - sauted, grilled, or fried
• Crab or lobster meat
• Bay scallops or calamari
• Clams, mussels, or oysters
• Flaky tilapia, cod, or halibut

Feel free to get creative with ethnic seasonings too, like Old Bay, jerk or Cajun spices, or lemon-garlic marinades.

Vegetarian Variations

To make grits a complete vegetarian meal, incorporate plants through methods like:

• Folding in roasted or grilled veggies
• Topping with fried eggs or an avocado slice
• Swirling in pesto, chimichurri, or Romesco sauce
• Sprinkling toasted nuts, seeds, or coconut flakes on top
• Stirring in black beans, chickpeas, or tofu crumbles

Play with textures and colors for a filling meatless dish.

Sweet and Savory Breakfasts

Wake up to a warm bowl of grits loaded with nutritious (and delicious!) toppings. Try these starter ideas:

Greek Yogurt Parfaits

Layer sweetened old-fashioned grits with honeyed Greek yogurt, fresh fruit like berries and bananas, and crunchy granola for a beautiful parfait.

Breakfast Hash

Spoon cheesy grits into bowls and top with sauted vegetable hash browns, peppers and onions, crumbled turkey sausage, and eggs your way.

Breakfast Casserole

For a crowd-pleasing bake, combine cooked grits, scrambled eggs, dice ham, pico de gallo, and shredded cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack. Pour into a greased baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake until hot and bubbly.

Loaded Oatmeal

Stir cooked old-fashioned grits into a pot of oatmeal along with almond milk, cinnamon, raisins or craisins, toasted almonds, and a drizzle of maple syrup for added texture and fiber.

Global Grits Inspiration

While grits are considered an American food, other world cuisines use similar ground grain dishes you can riff on. Branch out with cultural themes like:

Italian Polenta

Stir Parmesan, wilted spinach, roasted tomatoes, basil and toasted pine nuts into thick grits for a take on creamy soft polenta.

Indian Upma

Toast cashews, raisins and curry powder to fold into hot grits with warmed milk and top with fresh cilantro.

West African Fufu

For a traditional stew accompaniment, serve grits mounds with spicy, aromatic African peanut or chicken stews ladled over the top.

Chinese Congee

Simmer stone ground grits in chicken broth with shredded chicken, ginger, green onions, soy sauce and chopped toasted almonds for a comforting rice porridge.

Ancient Mayan Pinole

Sweeten grits with honey and cinnamon and top with seasonal fruit like berries or mango with a splash of milk for a simple take on the toasted corn powder.

See? The possibilities are endless!

Tips for Leftover Grits

With some leftover cooked grits, whip up totally new dishes like:

• Pancakes or waffles - Fold into batter along with corn kernels or bacon crumbles.
• fried grit cakes - Combine with egg, cheese, and vegetables for flattened fried patties.
• Casseroles - Mix with chicken, vegetables, and broth for a baked dish.
• Arancini - Roll into balls with fillings like ham and cheese, coat in breadcrumbs and fry for Italian rice balls.
• Spread - Blend with roasted red peppers and chives for a unique sandwich condiment or crostini topping.

Dont toss leftover grits - have fun transforming them instead!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.