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Side Dish · Southern

Stone-Ground Cheese Grits

Stone-ground grits slow-cooked in stock and finished with heavy cream, butter, and sharp cheddar, the creamy Southern base for shrimp, scallops, or fish.

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Stone-ground cheese grits topped with seared Gulf shrimp
ServesServes 4
Prep5 min
Cook50 min
CourseSide Dish
From Chef Jojo

Stone-ground grits take time but are absolutely worth it—don't rush the process! Quick grits are not a substitute. The slow cooking develops incredible flavor and creamy texture. If you can find heirloom grits from a local mill, even better!

Ingredients

Make

Method

  1. In a large heavy-bottomed pot, bring the water or stock to a rolling boil over high heat.
  2. Pour in the grits in a slow, steady stream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, then reduce the heat to low.
  3. Cook 30–40 minutes on low, stirring every 5–10 minutes with a wooden spoon so nothing sticks or scorches, until the grits are tender and creamy.
  4. When the grits have absorbed most of the liquid, stir in the cream and cook 5–10 minutes more until thick.
  5. Remove from the heat and stir in the butter and cheddar until melted. Season generously with salt and white pepper, and add a pinch of cayenne if you like a little heat.
  6. Serve immediately. Grits thicken as they sit, so loosen them with a little more cream or hot water if needed.

Chef's tips

  • Store stone-ground grits in the freezer; their natural oils go rancid at room temperature.
  • Leftover grits firm up in the refrigerator; reheat with a splash of cream or stock, whisking until smooth.

Rather have us cook it?

It's on our menus as Gouda Stone-Ground Grits. Our chefs cook this in vacation homes and rentals for dinners, celebrations and retreats.

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