How to Cook Grits in a Rice Cooker Like a Pro
You may be familiar with grits if you’re from the United States. For those who don’t try this beloved dish, grits are a staple of southern cuisine made from ground corn kernels. They are much more than just breakfast – they’re a cultural icon and a source of pride for many southerners.
So, the next time you sit down to enjoy a bowl of creamy, comforting grits, remember you’re not just having a delicious meal. You’re participating in a cultural legacy that has endured for centuries.
There are many ways to cook grits on an instant pot, stovetop, or pressure cooker, but they came out best in the rice cooker. In this article, I will share my tried and tested recipe of Grits for the rice cooker!
Table of Contents
What are Grits?
Grits are a staple in Southern cuisine made from ground corn kernels. They are made from different corn types: white, yellow, and hominy. Grits are a good source of carbohydrates and can be a filling and satisfying meal. People typically serve them as a breakfast food, but you can also use them as a side dish or as a base for other dishes, such as shrimp and grits.
What is the difference between Grits & Polenta?
People often confuse these two because both are ground cornmeal. But there is a little difference between them, changing their texture and taste. Grits are typically from hominy or white corn. It is a type of corn that has a softer, starchier texture. Polenta usually prepares from harder, more flavorful yellow corn.
Regarding the preparation time of both foods, grits are usually cooked in water or milk, while polenta is in stock or broth. The cooking time for grits is generally shorter than for polenta.
How to cook Grits in a Rice Cooker? Quick Recipe
How to Cook Grits in a Rice Cooker
Equipment
- Rice Cooker
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup of stone-ground grit
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/4 tbsp salt
- Ground Black pepper for taste
Instructions
- The first step is simple. Just gather all the above mentioningredients to make these savory Grits. Then put all these ingredients in therice cooker and plug it in.
- Now select the porridge cycle and let it cook. After 10minutes, stir the mixture. Although mixing when the cooking process completesis unnecessary, the porridge usually turns out fine even without stirring.
- When Grits are done, add a small amount of butter and a spoonful ofcherry for serving.
Notes
- Grits can easily stick to the bottom of the pot, so use a heavy-bottomed pot to distribute the heat evenly.
- For extra flavor & creaminess, stir in butter or cheese before serving.
- To adjust the consistency of the grits, add more liquid (such as milk or broth) for a thinner texture or cook longer.
- Store the leftover grits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Common Types of Grits
1. Stone-ground grits
They are whole dried corn kernels between two stones. These grits are coarser and have a more complex flavor than other grits. They take longer to cook but are known as the gold standard by many grit enthusiasts.
2. Hominy grits
Hominy grits are from dried corn kernels treated with an alkaline solution to remove the hull and germ. These grits have a slightly chewy texture and a slightly tangy flavor.
3. Yellow corn grits
As the name suggests, these grits are from yellow corn. Their flavor is slightly sweeter and has a somewhat coarser texture.
4. Instant grits
Instant grits are also called “grits from packets.”They are pre-cooked and faster to cook. However, they are often less flavorful than other types of grits and can have a mushy texture.
Are Grits gluten-free?
Grits are gluten-free since they form from corn, which is a gluten-free grain. However, if you use commercially processed grits that may have wheat, barley, and other gluten-containing grains. Therefore, it’s essential to check the packaging to ensure that the grits are labeled as gluten-free.
Recap
Grits are a high source of carbohydrates, and a must recipe for any must-besting grits in a rice cooker. It is a convenient and easy way to enjoy this delicious dish. You can achieve perfect grits every time with the proper ratio of grits to liquid, a few flavoring ingredients, and patience. Why not impress your friends and family with your newfound grits-cooking skills?
Grits and farro are like the grain sisters from different misters. Let’s know how to make farro as a side dish for your next meal!
Related Read: How to Cook Couscous in a Rice Cooker?
Related Read: How to Cook Lentils in a Rice Cooker?
FAQs
What is the grits-to-water ratio?
The grits-to-water ratio varies depending on the type of grits and the desired consistency. For regular grits, the grits-to-water ratio is 1:4.
What is the trick to perfect grits?
The trick to perfect grits is to pay attention to the details. Here are some tips for making perfect grits:
1. Stir frequently, as it can help prevent the clumping of grits.
2. Serve immediately after cooking while they are still warm and creamy.
Can a diabetic person eat grits?
Grits are a good source of carbohydrates and can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels if you consume them in large amounts. So, if a diabetic person wants to eat grits, take them in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
