Healthy Grits
There are different kinds of grits--usually quick cooking and old fashioned. The quick cooking grits are loaded with sodium at 300 mg per serving, whereas the old fashion grits have 0 sodium.
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 150kcal
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup old fashioned grits (not quick cooking)
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast flakes (for a cheesy flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon dry steak seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to your taste)
- 1/2 cup cooked beans if desired
Instructions
- STOVETOP INSTRUCTIONS: Slowly add grits and seasonings to briskly boiling water. Reduce heat to low, cover, and allow to cook for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Take off heat when they reach the desired thickness.
- MICROWAVE INSTRUCTIONS: Combine all ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl. The instructions on the box say to microwave on 50% heat for 7-10 minutes. However, I always cook on high because it only takes 3 minutes. I like to set time for 1-1/2 minutes. When it stops, stir the grits and add another 1-1/2 minutes of cook time.
- I have includes lots of healthy seasoning options in the article above. Some may surprise you!
Video
Notes
Tips & Suggestions:
- Cooking- With either method of cooking that you choose, be aware that grits continue to thicken for a few minutes after removing them from the heat. If you aren’t careful, they will become solid.
- Thinning- If this happens, simply add a little more water or veggie broth and stir well to break up any clumps. You might have to reheat them to help with stirring.
- Grits- These are not instant grits but are rather old-fashioned grits. They still only take about 3 minutes on high power in the microwave to fully cook. Of course, they can also be made on the stovetop.
- Veggie broth- Even though the directions on the grits package say to use water, if you use veggie broth, or at least replace some of the water with veggie broth, it adds a lot of flavor.
- Protein- You can add plant-based proteins like beans, tofu, or tempeh to your grits to make them more filling and nutritious. You can also stir in protein-rich ingredients like chia seeds, hemp seeds, or a scoop of vegan protein powder for a balanced meal.
- Storage- Grits need to be eaten immediately because they begin to thicken and solidify as they cool. They don't reheat well.
Nutrition
Serving: 2g | Calories: 150kcal | Protein: 4g | Fat: 0.5g | Fiber: 1g