Summer Grit Casserole Cakes

Summer Grit Casserole Cakes

Table of Contents

    Share

    Ingredients

    • 4 cups chicken broth
    • 3 cups milk
    • 2 garlic cloves, grated
    • 1 tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more to taste
    • 2 cups Marsh Hen Mill grits (your choice)
    • 1 large egg
    • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
    • 4 Tbsp. salted butter, cubed and softened
    • 3/4 tsp. ground black pepper, divided, plus more to taste
    • Nonstick cooking spray
    • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
    • Vegetable oil, for frying
    • Chopped fresh chives, for serving

    Instructions

    1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth, milk, garlic, and ½ teaspoon of salt to a simmer over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the grits. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook, stirring frequently, until tender, 15–20 minutes (or per package directions).
    2. In a small bowl, beat the egg. Spoon ¼ cup of the hot grits into the egg, stirring constantly, then stir the egg mixture back into the pot. Stir in the cheese and butter until melted and combined. Add ½ teaspoon pepper and salt to taste.
    3. Spray a 13x9-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Spoon in the grits, smoothing into an even layer. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface.
    4. Cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, then refrigerate until set — 3 hours, or up to 3 days ahead.
    5. Place the flour in a shallow dish and whisk in the remaining ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
    6. Using a 2- to 2½-inch round biscuit cutter, cut the grit cakes into rounds (or slice into 2-inch squares). Dredge in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess.
    7. In a large cast-iron skillet, add oil to cover the bottom by about ½ inch. Heat to 350°F over medium-high. Working in batches, cook the grit cakes without moving until golden on one side, 2–4 minutes. Flip and cook until golden, 2–3 minutes more.
    8. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt and chopped chives. Serve hot or warm.