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How To Thicken Grits

byKrista Created on Updated on
best way to cook grits

If you’re a fan of southern cuisine, then you’ve most likely heard of grits. Thicker grits are an absolute delight, especially when paired with savory toppings like cheese, bacon, or shrimp.

In this blog post, we’re going to explore some tried-and-true methods for thickening grits and taking them to the next level. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a newbie in the kitchen, these tips, and tricks will help you create the most delicious, indulgent bowl of grits you’ve ever tasted.

So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

how long do grits last

How Do You Cook Grits?

Thin, soupy grits are often served as a side dish with savory dishes like eggs, sausage, or bacon. They can also be used as a base for dishes like shrimp and grits or as a sauce for vegetables.

Thicker, creamier grits are often served as a main dish, either sweet (with milk, butter, and sugar) or savory (with cheese, herbs, or spices). They can also be used as a base for dishes like grits cakes or grits fritters.

To achieve the desired consistency, grits are typically cooked with a liquid (such as water or milk) and stirred frequently until they reach the desired thickness. The ratio of grits to liquid, as well as the cooking time, will vary depending on the specific recipe and personal preference.

What Are The Reasons For Thin Grits?

There are a few potential reasons why your grits may be too thin and watery:

  • You may be using too much liquid. Grits are typically cooked with a liquid (such as water or milk) to create the desired consistency. If you are using too much liquid, your grits will be thin and watery. To fix this, you can try reducing the amount of liquid you use or increasing the amount of grits.
  • You may be cooking the grits for too short a time. Grits need to cook for a sufficient amount of time in order to absorb the liquid and reach the desired consistency. If you are cooking the grits for too short a time, they may be too thin and watery. To fix this, you can try cooking the grits for longer until they reach the desired consistency.
  • You may be using the wrong type of grits. There are different types of grits available, including quick-cooking grits and regular grits. Quick-cooking grits are made from smaller, more finely ground cornmeal and cook faster than regular grits. If you are using quick-cooking grits, they may be more prone to becoming thin and watery if not cooked for the correct amount of time. To fix this, you can try using regular grits or cooking the quick-cooking grits for longer.
  • You may be using the wrong ratio of grits to liquid. The correct ratio of grits to liquid will depend on the specific recipe and your personal preference for the consistency of the grits. If you are using too much liquid relative to the amount of grits, your grits may be too thin and watery. To fix this, you can try adjusting the ratio of grits to liquid to achieve the desired consistency.

How To Thicken Grits

There are a few different ways to thicken watery grits as well as some common questions about thickening grits below.

  • Cook the grits for longer: Grits need to cook for a sufficient amount of time in order to absorb the liquid and reach the desired consistency. If your grits are too thin, try cooking them for longer until they reach the desired thickness.
  • Reduce the amount of liquid: If you are using too much liquid relative to the amount of grits, your grits may be too thin. To fix this, try reducing the amount of liquid you use or increasing the amount of grits. If you’ve already added too much liquid, you can counteract it by adding more grits (assuming you just started… don’t add dry grits when the rest of the dish is soft and ready to be eaten).
  • Add a thickening agent: You can try adding a thickening agent, such as cornstarch or flour, to your grits to help them thicken. To do this, mix a small amount of cornstarch or flour with a little bit of cold water to create a slurry, then slowly add the slurry to the grits while stirring constantly.
  • Cook the grits uncovered: If you are cooking the grits with a lid on, try cooking them uncovered. This will allow some of the excess moisture to evaporate, which can help the grits thicken.
  • Let the grits sit: If you have the time, you can try letting the grits sit for a few minutes after they are done cooking. This will allow the excess moisture to be absorbed, which can help the grits thicken.

It may take some trial and error to find the right combination of cooking time, liquid amount, and other factors to achieve the desired consistency for your grits, so keep trying!

Common Questions About Thickening Grits

How do I thicken grits without lumps?

To avoid lumps, add the grits to the boiling liquid slowly while whisking constantly. Gradually increase the heat while whisking, and continue to stir frequently while the grits cook.

What can I add to grits to make them thicker?

Some ingredients that can help thicken grits include cornmeal, flour, cornstarch, cheese, or heavy cream.

Should I use milk or water to thicken grits?

Milk or a mixture of milk and water can be used to thicken grits and can add a creamy texture and flavor.

Can I use cornstarch to thicken my grits?

Yes, cornstarch is a great option to thicken grits. Mix cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to make a slurry, then stir the slurry into the grits while they are cooking.

How do I fix gritty or grainy grits?

If your grits are gritty or grainy, try blending them in a blender or food processor until smooth. This can help break down any large particles.

What is the best type of grits to use for a thick and creamy texture?

Stone-ground grits or coarse-ground grits are best for a thick and creamy texture, as they have a coarser texture and take longer to cook.

Can I use cheese to thicken my grits?

Yes, cheese can be used to thicken grits and add a delicious flavor. Add shredded cheese to the grits and stir until melted.

How do I know when my grits are thick enough?

Grits should have a thick and creamy consistency similar to oatmeal. You can use a spoon to test their thickness and make sure they are not runny or even too thick.

How long does it take to thicken grits?

It usually takes about 20–30 minutes to cook grits and achieve a thick and creamy texture. The exact time can vary depending on the type of grits and cooking method.

Can I use a slow cooker to make thick grits?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker to make grits. Cook on low heat for 6–8 hours, stirring occasionally, and add liquid as needed to achieve the desired thickness.

Krista

Krista and her husband Chris created Oh She Cooks to help people find easy recipes and answers to food questions. Krista lives in Pittsburgh, PA with her husband and 3 children and enjoys traveling, eating good food and crochet.

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