Nassau Grits
Nassau Grits is a hearty, flavorful dish combining smoky bacon, savory ham, and stewed tomatoes, perfect for breakfast or brunch and suited for those who enjoy Southern-inspired comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then remove and drain on paper towels.
- Crumble or chop the cooked bacon and set aside.
- In the bacon drippings, sauté the chopped onion and green pepper until tender.
- Add the stewed tomatoes and water to the skillet, bringing to a simmer.
- Stir in salt and pepper to taste.
- Gradually add the grits, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Cook the mixture until the grits are thick and tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- Add the chopped ham and cooked bacon into the grits, stirring to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional bacon or ham if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with olive oil and add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. You can also use instant grits for quicker preparation, but traditional stone-ground grits will yield a creamier texture. Pairing this dish with eggs can elevate the meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nassau Grits as a hearty main dish, garnished with additional crumbled bacon or chopped ham for extra flavor. It pairs well with a side of sautéed greens or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a comforting breakfast option, try serving it with fried eggs on top. This dish also complements well with various pork recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the mixture and microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, until heated through. You can also warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a little liquid as needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nassau Grits contains roughly 182 calories, with 7g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2181mg per serving (95% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Nassau Grits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grits ahead and reheat them when ready to serve. Just be sure to store them properly in the refrigerator. If they thicken too much, add a little water or broth when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.
What type of grits should I use?
For the best texture and flavor, use stone-ground grits. They have a coarser texture that makes for a creamier dish. Instant grits can be used for a quicker option but may not have the same rich taste.
Can I add other ingredients to Nassau Grits?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or add spices such as paprika or cumin for an extra flavor boost. You can also mix in cheese for a creamy twist, and it pairs wonderfully with the flavors of dishes like Hot German Potato Salad Fondue.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).