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
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- Cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, then refrigerate until set — 3 hours, or up to 3 days ahead.
- Place the flour in a shallow dish and whisk in the remaining ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
- 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.
- 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.
- Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt and chopped chives. Serve hot or warm.




