What are Grits?
Grits, a Southern staple, is a porridge made with ground dried maize, or corn. It has been a staple in the American kitchen since Native Americans first taught the early settlers in the Southern United States how to make it. Corn was a major crop of the time, and with its abundance, it quickly became a popular form of sustenance. It can be served as a hot breakfast cereal, a side dish, or as its own entity. No matter the specific dish, however, the components remain the same: corn, heat, water and salt.
The History of Grits
The word for grits could have been derived from the old English term for coarse meal, “grytt,” or from the Latin word for grain, “granum.” The oldest known record of grits being cooked and served as a dish is in a cookbook from 1747 called Carolina Housewife. Even from that time, grits were an everyday food. Grits are enjoyed just the same today as they were back then, but have been adapted to various regions based on local preferences.
Preparing Grits
Grits can be prepared on their own, with just the basic components of corn, heat, water and salt. For a classic Southern breakfast style, they are cooked with water, and served with butter and sugar. For a savory side dish, they are cooked with milk and cooked down until thick and creamy and served with butter, salt and pepper, as well as pork chops or any other desired protein. Grits can also be cooked into a thick porridge with vegetables or cheese for added flavor.
No matter the preparation or the type of corn used, the most important thing to remember when making grits is that like all grains, they require a certain amount of time in order to cook correctly. And, it’s important to remember to not add too much water, as it will thin out the porridge. Additionally, finer grits typically require less cooking time, while coarser grits require more. All of these items are important to keep in mind for a successful dish every single time.
In conclusion, grits are not just a unique, Southern dish; they’re a culinary staple of American flavor and culture. Whether you’re a fan of the classic preparation or ready to try something new, all of the necessary ingredients can be found in your local grocery store and you have everything you need to make the delicious dish your own.