Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 pound country ham, sliced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Special equipment needed:
- Large saucepan
- Skillet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
2. Slowly add 1 cup of stone-ground grits to the boiling water, stirring constantly.
3. Reduce heat to low and let the grits simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Once the grits are cooked, add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of milk, and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add 1/2 pound of sliced country ham and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
6. Serve the grits in bowls and top with the country ham slices. Garnish with chopped green onions.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- N/A
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 580
- Fat: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Protein: 27g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Regular grits can be used instead of stone-ground grits.
- Any type of cheese can be used instead of cheddar cheese.
- Half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream.
Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes or jalapeños to the grits for a spicy twist.
- Use bacon instead of country ham.
- Top the grits with a fried egg for a breakfast twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Stir the grits occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.
- Use a whisk to make the grits smoother.
- Cook the country ham until it's crispy for added texture.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover grits and ham separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the grits in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water to loosen them up.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the grits in individual bowls and top with the country ham slices and chopped green onions.
Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions
Pairings:
- Biscuits
- Fried chicken
- Collard greens
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Sauteed green beans
- Cornbread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the grits are too thick, add more milk or water to loosen them up.
- If the grits are too thin, cook them for a few more minutes until they thicken up.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the country ham to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure it's safe to eat.
Food history:
- Grits are a staple in Southern cuisine and have been around for centuries.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, salty
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the grits for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
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