Grits, a classic Southern staple, have been a breakfast favorite for centuries. While they’re delicious on their own, adding some tasty ingredients can take them to a whole new level. In this article, we’ll explore the best additions to plain grits, from savory meats to sweet treats, and everything in between.
The Basics of Grits
Before we dive into the fun stuff, let’s cover the basics. Grits are made from ground corn and are typically cooked with milk or water. They can be served creamy and smooth or thick and chunky, depending on your preference. There are also different types of grits, including:
- Stone-ground grits: These are made from whole corn kernels that have been ground between stones, giving them a coarser texture and more robust flavor.
- Steel-ground grits: These are made from corn kernels that have been ground using steel rollers, resulting in a finer texture and milder flavor.
- Instant grits: These are pre-cooked and dehydrated, making them quick and easy to prepare.
Savory Additions
Grits are a great base for a hearty breakfast, and adding some savory ingredients can make them even more satisfying. Here are some ideas:
Meats
- Bacon: Crumbled or diced bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor to grits. Try cooking the bacon in the pan before adding the grits for an extra-rich flavor.
- Sausage: Whether you prefer classic pork sausage or something more adventurous like chorizo, adding cooked sausage to your grits can add a meaty, savory flavor.
- Ham: Diced ham or Canadian bacon can add a salty, meaty flavor to grits.
Cheese
- Cheddar: A classic combination, cheddar cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor to grits.
- Parmesan: A sprinkle of parmesan cheese can add a salty, nutty flavor to grits.
- Feta: Crumbly feta cheese can add a tangy, salty flavor to grits.
Vegetables
- Scallions: Finely chopped scallions can add a fresh, oniony flavor to grits.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms can add an earthy, savory flavor to grits.
- Spinach: Wilted spinach can add a nutritious, flavorful boost to grits.
Sweet Additions
Grits don’t have to be savory – they can also be sweet! Here are some ideas:
Fruits
- Bananas: Sliced or mashed bananas can add natural sweetness to grits.
- Berries: Fresh or frozen berries like blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries can add a sweet, fruity flavor to grits.
- Diced apples: Cooked with cinnamon and sugar, diced apples can add a sweet, autumnal flavor to grits.
Nuts and Seeds
- Pecans: Chopped pecans can add a rich, nutty flavor to grits.
- Walnuts: Chopped walnuts can add a crunchy, nutty flavor to grits.
- Chia seeds: Mix chia seeds with milk or water to create a nutritious, filling topping for grits.
Global Inspirations
Grits can be inspired by cuisines from around the world. Here are some ideas:
Italian-Style Grits
- Add cooked sausage, diced tomatoes, and basil for a hearty, Italian-inspired breakfast.
- Mix in some grated parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Mexican-Style Grits
- Add diced chorizo, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for a spicy, south-of-the-border breakfast.
- Mix in some crumbled queso fresco for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion
Grits are a versatile breakfast food that can be elevated with a wide range of ingredients. Whether you prefer savory meats, sweet fruits, or global inspirations, there’s a grits recipe out there for you. So next time you’re cooking up a pot of grits, don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own favorite ingredients. Your taste buds will thank you!
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| Bacon | Crumbled or diced bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor to grits. |
| Cheddar cheese | A classic combination, cheddar cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor to grits. |
| Bananas | Sliced or mashed bananas can add natural sweetness to grits. |
- Try cooking the bacon in the pan before adding the grits for an extra-rich flavor.
- Mix in some grated parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
What are some popular add-ins to elevate my grits game?
Adding delicious ingredients to your grits can take your breakfast to the next level. Some popular add-ins include cheese, such as cheddar, parmesan, or feta, which can add a rich and creamy flavor to your grits. You can also try adding some diced ham, bacon, or sausage for a protein-packed breakfast.
Other options include sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach, which can add a burst of flavor and nutrients to your grits. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even try adding some caramelized onions or roasted garlic for a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.
How do I make creamy grits?
Making creamy grits is all about using the right ratio of grits to liquid and cooking them low and slow. Start by bringing your liquid of choice (such as milk, cream, or broth) to a simmer, then gradually whisk in your grits. Reduce the heat to low and cook, covered, for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are smooth and creamy.
You can also try adding a little bit of butter or cream to your grits towards the end of cooking to give them an extra-rich and creamy texture. Just be careful not to add too much, or your grits can become too thick and sticky.
Can I make grits ahead of time?
Yes, you can make grits ahead of time, but it’s best to reheat them carefully to preserve their creamy texture. Cooked grits can be refrigerated for up to a day or frozen for up to a month. To reheat, simply add a little bit of liquid (such as milk or cream) to the grits and heat them over low heat, whisking constantly, until they’re smooth and creamy again.
You can also try making grits in a slow cooker, which can be a great way to cook them ahead of time. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the grits are smooth and creamy.
What type of grits should I use?
There are several types of grits to choose from, including stone-ground, steel-ground, and instant grits. Stone-ground grits are made from whole corn kernels that have been ground between stones, and they have a coarser texture and more robust flavor than steel-ground grits.
Steel-ground grits, on the other hand, are made from corn kernels that have been ground into a finer texture using steel grinders. They cook more quickly than stone-ground grits and have a milder flavor. Instant grits are pre-cooked and can be made in just a few minutes, but they often lack the rich flavor and creamy texture of stone-ground or steel-ground grits.
Can I add sweet ingredients to my grits?
Yes, you can definitely add sweet ingredients to your grits! In fact, sweet grits are a popular breakfast dish in many parts of the country. Try adding a drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar to your grits for a touch of sweetness.
You can also try adding some diced fruit, such as bananas or berries, to your grits for added sweetness and nutrition. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even try making sweet grits with cream and sugar, then topping them with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
How do I prevent my grits from becoming too thick?
One of the most common mistakes people make when cooking grits is adding too much grits to the pot, which can cause them to become too thick and sticky. To prevent this, make sure to use the right ratio of grits to liquid, and whisk constantly as you add the grits to the pot.
You can also try adding a little bit of liquid to the grits as they cook to thin them out if they become too thick. Just be careful not to add too much liquid, or your grits can become too thin and runny.
Can I make grits in a microwave?
Yes, you can make grits in a microwave, but it’s not always the best method. Microwaving can cause the grits to cook unevenly, leading to a gritty or sticky texture. However, if you’re in a hurry, you can try microwaving your grits in short intervals, stirring between each interval, until they’re smooth and creamy.
Just be careful not to overcook the grits, as this can cause them to become too thick and sticky. It’s also a good idea to use a microwave-safe container and to stir the grits carefully before serving to avoid any hot spots.