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:
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Cook the middlins
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In a pot, bring water/stock + a big pinch of salt to a simmer.
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Whisk in middlins, reduce heat to low.
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Cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring often, until thick and creamy.
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(Add a splash of water/milk if it tightens too much.)
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Build the richness
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Stir in:
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Milk
-
cream (if using)
-
2 tbsp butter
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Simmer for another 5–10 minutes until silky.
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Make the brown butter
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In a separate pan, melt remaining 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
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Cook until it turns golden brown and smells nutty.
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Kill heat, carefully add bourbon (it may sizzle).
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Let it mellow 30–60 seconds.
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Finish
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Fold brown butter + bourbon into the middlins.
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Add cheese if using.
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Season with salt + pepper to taste.
Texture Check: Should be loose, creamy, spoonable—not stiff. Think risotto meets grits.
Topping Ideas
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Shrimp
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Sauté shrimp with garlic, lemon, chili flake
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Finish with butter + herbs
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Spoon over middlins
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Braised Short Rib
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Red wine braise
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Shred and serve over top with jus
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Simple Sides
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Crispy shallots
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Fresh herbs (chives, parsley)
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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


