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Crispy, Creamy Southern Grit Cakes Recipe: An Undeniable Love for Grits

If you’ve ever dismissed grits as bland or unexciting, it’s time to think again. This delicious Southern staple can be transformed into a delightful dish that promises to tantalise your taste buds. Enter the Crispy, Creamy Southern Grit Cakes—a beautiful marriage of textures and flavours that will have you falling head over heels for grits. This recipe will guide you through making these delicious cakes, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish.

What Are Grits?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s understand what grits are. Grits are made from ground corn, specifically white or yellow corn, and they have been a cherished part of Southern cuisine for centuries. Grits can be served in various ways—from creamy porridge-like textures to firm slices that can be grilled or fried. The versatility of grits makes them an excellent ingredient for a variety of dishes, including our star recipe today.

Ingredients

To make creamy Southern grit cakes, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Grits

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water or chicken broth (for added flavour)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
• 1 teaspoon butter
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Grit Cakes

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• Vegetable oil or butter for frying

Optional Toppings

• Chopped herbs (such as chives or parsley)
• Crispy bacon or sausage
• Hollandaise sauce or a poached egg

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Grits

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the salt and gradually whisk in the grits, ensuring no lumps form.
2. Reduce the heat to low and cook the grits, stirring frequently, until they thicken and become creamy—this should take about 20–25 minutes for stone-ground grits. If you’re using quick-cooking grits, follow the instructions on the package.
3. Once cooked, stir in the cheese, butter, and pepper. If you desire a truly creamy texture, you can add a splash of milk or cream at this stage.
4. Pour the cooked grits into a greased baking dish, spreading them out evenly. Allow the mixture to cool and set for at least two hours, or preferably overnight in the fridge.

Step 2: Form the Cakes

1. Once the grits are firm, turn them out onto a cutting board. Cut into squares or circles, depending on your preference.
2. Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and a final bowl with breadcrumbs.
3. Carefully coat each grit cake first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs. This process will help create the crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.

Step 3: Fry the Grit Cakes

1. In a large skillet, heat a generous amount of vegetable oil or butter over medium heat.
2. Once hot, carefully add the grit cakes to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove the cakes from the skillet and let them rest on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 4: Serve

Now that your crispy, creamy grits cakes are ready, it’s time to serve. These savoury delights are perfect on their own or topped with your choice of garnishes. Try them with crispy bacon, a poached egg, or a drizzle of hollandaise sauce for an extra indulgent brunch treat.

Why You’ll Love Grit Cakes

What makes these grits cakes so special? The contrast of textures is simply divine: the crisp exterior gives way to a warm, cheesy centre that practically melts in your mouth. Plus, they are incredibly versatile; you can add various flavourings, spices, and toppings according to your taste, making them suitable for any meal.

In a world where comfort food reigns supreme, these Southern grit cakes are sure to become a beloved addition to your repertoire. Not only will they convert grit skeptics, but they will also bring a taste of Southern hospitality to your table. Enjoy!

Whether you’re dining alone or hosting a special brunch for friends, don’t overlook this scrumptious dish. With a little time and a few simple ingredients, you’ll discover just how wonderful grits can be. Happy cooking!

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