Creamy Grits

Let's Cook

1. Step 1.

   Bring to a boil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan: 3¾ cups water; 1½ cups milk, cream, or half-and half; 3 tablespoons butter; ½ teaspoon salt

2. Step 2.

   In a thin, steady stream whisk in: ¾ cup old-fashioned or stone-ground grits

3. Step 3.

   Return to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the grits have visibly thickened, about 20 minutes. Reduce the heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the grits are soft but not runny, about 40 minutes more.

4. Step 4.

   SLOW COOKER

5. Step 5.

   Bring just to a boil in a medium saucepan: 3 cups water; 1 cup milk, cream, or half-and-half

6. Step 6.

   Pour into a slow cooker set on low. Whisk in: ¾ cup stone-ground grits

7. Step 7.

   Stir in: 3 tablespoons butter, cut into small cubes; ½ teaspoon salt

8. Step 8.

   Cover and cook, stirring every hour, until very creamy and tender, about 6 hours.