Nitty-Gritty: 101
Grits are an American Indian corn-based food traditionally served during breakfast [though I'll take mine anytime]. Ground in a stone mill, grits consist of the corn's coarse grind; the finer grind is cornmeal. They are similar to other thick maize-based porridges such as polenta, so tell grit-naysaying guests that you're serving polenta and everyone will make a happy plate!
They are an institution here in the South and taken quite seriously, always served with salt, pepper and, of course, butter. Without the butter [I can't even fathom!], they are relatively low in calories and fat, have a bit of protein and, according to J, contain the carbohydrates that keep you going, not growing.
The regular, good old fashioned grits are unquestionably better than the Instant or Quick varieties, although a bit harder to find. But don't cheat using the fake stuff, it's a disgrace really. The proper way to cook grits was even a major topic of discussion during My Cousin Vinny's cross-examination scene. It's serious business!
12 comments:
I'm a big baby. I'm scared to try grits. :(
Katie: I'm sure you've seen My Cousin Vinny, right? The scene where he tries them at the diner counter and literally puts on little morsel into his mouth! Cracks me up each time. So if you like corn, cornmeal, or polenta...heck even something with the consistency of pudding or oatmeal, you have to give them a shot. And you have to be willing to figure out how you like them served: butter, salt/pepper, Tony's, garlic, cheese, etc. A million ways to spruce up those bits of ground corn!
THE BEST MOVIE EVER!!!! i forgot how Mona Lisa always took pictures of everything! hilarious!
I hadn't had grits until my mid twenties when my {then} boyfriend's grandma cooked them and forced me to try them. I have to say, I was scared at first ...but they were better than I thought! cute post!
I'm so glad you cleared this up! ;-) LOVE the movie, one of my all time favorites!!! (ps- I'm Megan's sister with alifesdesign by the way!)
That's so funny that people are afraid to try them! :) I have a good "starter" recipe that you cook the grits according to the directions and mix with a couple of beaten eggs, paprika, garlic salt, red pepper, salt and pepper, tabasco, and sharp cheddar cheese and then bake in a casserole dish. It is scrumptious! The eggs give it a more fluffy consistency that even non-grit lovers can enjoy! (I'll try to find the exact recipe if anyone is interested)
Oh I have to point out that as with everything else in the south, lots of people eat grits with sugar!
I have tried to eat grits many times. Somehow I just can't get a taste for them. I kind of wish I could, because so many diners include them in the breakfast meals and I always have to pass off that portion of my breakfast to whoever I'm eating with!
Thanks for the 411...I think I would probably order them somewhere (only at an establishment that is known for their grits) and then try them at home. Lots of butter, eh?
I love this courtroom scene in MCV! TOO FUNNY! It was fun to see again! THANKS!
My shrimp and grits you shared was a BIG HIT!
Well I like pretty much anything with butter so I'm sold.
Butter and cheese! YUM. I even took some with me when I moved to the UK.
Here's my mother's quibble... are grits singular or plural?
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