Bourbon-Butter Carolina Gold Rice Middlins

Bourbon-Butter Carolina Gold Rice Middlins

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    Creamy, rich, finished with brown butter + bourbon

    Yield:

    • 4–6 servings (side) or 4 mains as a base

    Ingredients:

    • 1 cup Carolina Gold Rice Middlins
    • 4 cups water or light stock (chicken or veg)
    • 1 cup whole milk (or sub cream for richer)
    • 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
    • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional but fire)
    • 1–2 oz bourbon (to taste)
    • 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar or aged cheese (optional)
    • Salt, to taste
    • Fresh cracked black pepper

     

    Instructions:

    1. Cook the middlins

      1.  In a pot, bring water/stock + a big pinch of salt to a simmer.

      2.  Whisk in middlins, reduce heat to low.

      3. Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring often, until thick and creamy.

      4.  (Add a splash of water/milk if it tightens too much.)

    2. Build the richness

      1. Stir in:

      2. Milk

      3. cream (if using)

      4. 2 tbsp butter

      5. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes until silky.


    1. Make the brown butter

      1. In a separate pan, melt remaining 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.

      2. Cook until it turns golden brown and smells nutty.

      3. Kill heat, carefully add bourbon (it may sizzle).

      4.  Let it mellow 30–60 seconds.


    1. Finish

      1. Fold brown butter + bourbon into the middlins.

      2. Add cheese if using.

      3. Season with salt + pepper to taste.


    Texture Check: Should be loose, creamy, spoonable—not stiff. Think risotto meets grits.


    Topping Ideas

    1. Shrimp

      1. Sauté shrimp with garlic, lemon, chili flake

      2. Finish with butter + herbs

      3. Spoon over middlins

    2. Braised Short Rib

      1. Red wine braise

      2. Shred and serve over top with jus

    3. Simple Sides

      1. Crispy shallots

      2. Fresh herbs (chives, parsley)

      3. Drizzle of good olive oil



    Notes (for chefs / selling this):

    Middlins give more flavor + better mouthfeel than standard grits

    Holds well for service (just loosen with stock)

    Bourbon can be subtle or pushed depending on menu style

    Easy to position as premium Southern starch