CREOLE TOMATO GRITS

Prep Time: 45 Minutes
Yields: 6 Servings

Comment:
While basic boiled grits are perfect in their simplicity for breakfast, additional ingredients are often added to the grain at bigger meals. Here, ripe Creole tomatoes and cheese are used to give flair to plain grits. It’s perfect as an accompaniment to braised or stewed venison or duck.

Ingredients:
1 cup yellow stoneground grits
1 cup diced Creole tomato
½ cup chopped bacon
¼ cup sliced garlic
2 tbsps canned chopped green chiles
3 cups water
½ cup heavy whipping cream
¼ cup butter
salt and black pepper to taste
¼ cup shredded mild Cheddar cheese

Method:
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, cook bacon until crisp, reserving drippings. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute. Add tomatoes and chiles and sauté 5 minutes. Add grits, blending well. Add water, cream and butter. Blend well and bring to a boil. Reduce to simmer and cook 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season to taste using salt and pepper. When creamy and tender, blend in cheese, stirring to melt cheese.