There’s something truly magical about a bowl of creamy grits. The first time I tasted them was during a sunny afternoon in Charleston, South Carolina. The warmth of the sun mingled with the rich aroma of southern cooking wafting through the air, and I was instantly enchanted. I knew I had to recreate that experience in my own kitchen. This recipe is a tribute to that day, infused with fresh herbs, roasted garlic, and creamy goat cheese that elevates the humble grit to a gourmet delight.
Ingredients
1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups vegetable broth
1 head of garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for the garlic. Slice the top off the head of garlic, drizzling it with a bit of olive oil and wrapping it in foil. This will create a sweet, caramelized flavor that will be the heart of our dish. While the garlic roasts, bring the vegetable broth to a gentle boil in a medium pot.
Once the broth is bubbling, slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits. Reduce the heat to low and continue to stir occasionally. Let the grits simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until they reach a creamy consistency. As the grits cook, remove the garlic from the oven and let it cool slightly before squeezing the soft cloves into a small bowl.
Incorporate the roasted garlic into the grits along with the butter, goat cheese, thyme, rosemary, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and the cheese has melted into the grits, creating a luscious texture that’s simply irresistible.
To serve, spoon the grits into bowls and sprinkle with fresh chives for a pop of color and flavor. Each bite is a warm hug, a reminder of that sunny afternoon in Charleston, and a celebration of the unique flavors of the South. Enjoy this dish as a hearty breakfast, a comforting side, or a stand-alone dinner that will impress your guests and warm your heart.
These whimsical herb-infused grits are not just a meal; they are an experience, a memory, and a delicious adventure waiting to unfold in your kitchen!