What are grits?

Grits are a type of thick porridge made for hominy, white corn that is traditionally stone ground and undergoes nixtamalization in which the corn is soaked in an alkaline solution, most commonly limewater to increase nutritional value and make the corn easier to grind in a grist mill.

How to Cook Grits?

Grits (even quick grits) require at least 30 minutes of cooking, with occasional stirring to keep the grits from sticking and burning on the bottom of the pot. Once they start boiling, keep the pot covered since grits can “pop” as they boil and can burn you, so pull the pot off the heat, open the lid gently and stir with caution but confidence.

Grits can be cooked in water, milk, or cream. My preference is a combination of milk and water, gradually adding more as needed while the grits cook. They’re commonly flavored with butter and salt, although some people prefer to eat sweet grits sweetened with sugar or honey.

Where do people eat grits?

In the United States, traditionally grits have roots in Native American cuisine dating back to the 16th century. Grits grew in popularity in the south and nowadays are considered a southern food or soul food dish with roots in Native American culture. In the south, they can be found at quick service restaurants, diners, fine dining restaurants and of course, home kitchens. Within the past decade, grits have started to become popular in other parts of the country but as someone who grew up in the South, and lives in the North, they’re still not quite as popular or even known in the North the way that they are in the South.

When Do People Eat Grits?

Grits are traditionally consumed by most for breakfast. However, like other breakfast foods, they’re sometimes paired with other savory foods and eaten for dinner. In my family, we’d often have fish (or sometimes shrimp) and grits on Fridays. It’s a tradition from my maternal grandmother that my Mom used to love to prepare for our family.

What does G.R.I.T.S. mean?

It’s an acronym for “girls raised in the south.” Of course, it’s quite fitting for a southern dish.

Do Grits “Stick to Your Ribs”?

“Stick to your ribs” is a saying that means that something keeps you full for a long period of time. Yes, a bowl of grits, especially paired with a protein like eggs, will most certainly keep you full and fueled for several hours.