Blue grits bring a delightful twist to our favorite Southern staple. We love how the natural hue from heirloom blue corn adds a pop of color to the breakfast table without sacrificing that creamy smoky flavor we crave
Tools and Equipment for Blue Grits Recipe
Gather these essential items to prepare our blue grits efficiently:
- Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan
We count on a thick base to distribute heat evenly and protect the delicate corn from scorching.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measuring is vital for maintaining the creamy texture of our blue grits.
- Wooden Spoon
We prefer a sturdy wooden spoon to stir regularly and prevent lumps during cooking.
- Lid or Splatter Screen
Covering the saucepan helps lock in moisture and keeps the grits from drying out.
- Dish Towel or Oven Mitt
We use a protective layer for handling hot equipment safely.
Ingredients for Blue Grits Recipe
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Heirloom blue corn grits | 1 cup |
| Water or stock | 4 cups |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Heavy cream (optional) | 1/4 cup |
| Grated cheese (optional) | 1/2 cup |
- We measure heirloom blue corn grits precisely so we maintain the rich flavor and vibrant color.
- We keep water or stock at room temperature to help the grits absorb moisture evenly.
- We add salt to balance the earthy sweetness of blue corn.
- We set aside unsalted butter for a velvety texture that enhances the natural creaminess.
- We include heavy cream if we want an even smoother consistency.
- We choose grated cheese for extra depth when we crave a more savory finish.
Instructions
We transform simple mornings into something special when we make blue grits. We follow these steps for a smooth and silky result.
Prep
- Gather our heavy-bottomed saucepan, measuring cups, wooden spoon, and lid.
- Measure 1 cup of heirloom blue corn grits.
- Measure 4 cups of water or stock.
- Keep 1 teaspoon of salt and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter close by.
Cooking the Grits
- Place the saucepan on the stove and pour in the measured water or stock.
- Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the blue grits with a wooden spoon.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover with the lid.
- Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking. Use caution when lifting the lid.
- Cook until the grits thicken to our preferred consistency, usually between 20 and 25 minutes.
| Cooking Step | Approximate Time |
|---|---|
| Gentle simmer | 5 minutes |
| Stirring and thickening | 20 to 25 minutes |
- Stir in the salt and unsalted butter.
- Whisk in 1/4 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of grated cheese if desired.
- Remove from heat and adjust seasoning to taste.
Serving Suggestions
We savor the warm blue grits as a versatile base for various meals. We enjoy pairing their creamy texture with bold toppings or subtle seasonal accents that highlight the natural sweetness of heirloom corn.
- Top hot blue grits with crispy bacon bits and chopped scallions for a savory breakfast dish.
- Layer fresh tomatoes along with sautéed spinach for a bright and nutritious meal.
- Add a spoonful of salsa or a drizzle of hot sauce to accentuate the smoky undertones.
- Serve them as a flavorful side with grilled shrimp or braised meat.
- Spoon in diced avocado or roasted corn for added color and a buttery mouthfeel.
- Finish with a sprinkle of grated cheese and a dash of pepper for extra depth.
Below is a quick reference table for portion sizes and complementary toppings:
| Portion Size of Cooked Grits | Recommended Toppings |
|---|---|
| ½ cup | “Crispy bacon bits” and chopped scallions |
| 1 cup | “Grilled shrimp” and fresh herbs |
| 1½ cups | “Roasted vegetables” and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil |
| 2 cups | “Pulled pork” and smoky barbecue sauce |
We call this dish the “queen of Southern breakfast” because of its regal hue and hearty flavor. We can also transform leftovers into grit cakes or fritters by shaping them into small rounds and pan-frying until golden.
Make-Ahead Tips
Soaking or partially cooking blue grits in advance helps us streamline our breakfast routine. We can store the grits in the refrigerator or freezer so we can quickly finish cooking them when we are ready to eat. We use airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to keep them fresh and preserve their creamy texture.
Soak in Advance
- We place dry heirloom blue corn grits in a large bowl.
- We cover the grits with water or stock.
- We store the bowl in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours.
- We drain any excess liquid before cooking to remove unwanted bitterness.
Partial Cooking Method
- We simmer the blue grits for about 15 minutes.
- We spread them on a flat baking sheet to cool them quickly.
- We transfer the cooled grits to a sealed container.
- We keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- We finish cooking them with additional liquid until they reach our preferred consistency.
Freezing Tips
- We cool blue grits completely.
- We fill freezer-safe containers or freezer bags.
- We label each container with the date for easy reference.
- We keep them frozen for up to 3 months.
- We thaw in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove with a splash of water or stock.
| Process | Time Needed | Storage Method |
|---|---|---|
| Soaking | Up to 8 hours | Covered bowl in refrigerator |
| Partial Cooking | 15 minutes initial cook | Airtight container in refrigerator (2 days max) |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Tightly sealed freezer container or bag |
Conclusion
We hope your table shines with this creative spin on a classic Southern favorite. It brings a burst of color to breakfast and never fails to spark conversation at our gatherings. Let us know how you enjoyed its comforting flavor
We look forward to hearing your flavorful twists and serving ideas
Frequently Asked Questions
What are blue grits?
Blue grits are a colorful twist on traditional Southern grits made from heirloom blue corn. Their distinctive hue and slightly sweeter taste come from the natural pigments in the corn. They cook up with the same creamy texture and mild flavor people love, making them a fun option for breakfast or anytime meals.
How do I cook blue grits?
Start by simmering water or stock, then stir in the grits. Cook them on low heat, stirring every few minutes to avoid lumps. In about 20 to 25 minutes, they’ll reach a creamy consistency. Finish with salt, butter, and any optional ingredients like cheese or cream, then adjust seasoning to taste.
Which tools do I need?
Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to provide even heat and prevent scorching. A sturdy wooden spoon helps with stirring, while measuring cups and spoons ensure accurate ingredient ratios. A lid or splatter screen keeps moisture in and prevents mess. Finally, have a dish towel or oven mitt nearby for safe handling of hot cookware.
What are some serving suggestions?
Try topping hot blue grits with crispy bacon bits, chopped scallions, or diced avocado. Pair them with grilled shrimp or braised meat for a hearty lunch or dinner. Add a little salsa, hot sauce, or roasted corn to boost flavor and texture. For a balanced meal, include sautéed vegetables, fresh tomatoes, or mild cheeses.
Can I make blue grits ahead of time?
Yes. You can soak them in water or stock for up to eight hours to reduce cooking time. Another option is partially cooking them for about 15 minutes, letting them cool, and storing them in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently with a splash of liquid to bring them back to a creamy texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Allow the fully cooked grits to cool completely, then place them in airtight containers. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in sealed freezer bags or containers for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop with a bit of liquid.