Grits Pie
Grits Pie Recipe - A Classic American Dish
Introduction
Grits Pie is a delicious and unique dessert that combines the creamy texture of grits with a sweet and custardy filling. This Southern-inspired dish is perfect for those who love a twist on traditional pie recipes.
History
Grits Pie has its roots in Southern cuisine, where grits are a staple ingredient in many dishes. This recipe takes the classic comfort food and transforms it into a sweet treat that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 0.75 cup water
- 0.13 tsp salt
- 0.25 cup quick-cooking grits
- 0.5 cup (1 stick) butter
- 0.75 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs, slightly beaten
- 0.25 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (9 inches) frozen pie shell, thawed
- Sweetened whipped cream and strawberries, optional
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a small saucepan, bring the water and salt to a boil.
- Add the grits and cook for 4 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add the butter and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Set aside and allow to cool slightly.
- In a small bowl, stir together the sugar, flour, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla.
- Slowly stir the mixture into the cooled grits.
- Pour the mixture into the pie shell and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until set.
- Serve warm or cold with whipped cream and strawberries as a garnish, if desired.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm and spicy flavor.
- Top the pie with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra sweet touch.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cook the grits until they are thick and creamy to ensure a smooth filling for the pie.
- Make sure to cool the grits slightly before adding the other ingredients to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- For a richer flavor, you can use whole milk instead of buttermilk in the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Grits Pie can be served warm or cold, with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh strawberries on top for a refreshing finish.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to bake the pie in a preheated oven to ensure even cooking and a golden brown crust.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use regular grits instead of quick-cooking grits, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake the pie.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the pie on a decorative platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Grits Pie pairs well with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a comforting dessert.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
240
Carbohydrates
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 18g
Fats
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
Proteins
- Protein: 5g
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin D: 1.2mcg
- Calcium: 60mg
- Iron: 1mg
- Potassium: 90mg
Alergens
Contains: Eggs, Milk, Wheat
Summary
Grits Pie is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is a delicious treat that should be enjoyed in moderation.
Summary
Grits Pie is a unique and delicious dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. With a creamy filling and a buttery crust, this Southern-inspired dish is a must-try for any food lover.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Grits Pie. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the small town of Magnolia Springs, Alabama. My grandmother, Mama Mae, was known throughout the community for her delicious, down-home cooking. She had a knack for taking simple ingredients and turning them into mouthwatering dishes that always left you wanting more.
One hot summer day, Mama Mae invited me into the kitchen to help her prepare a special dessert for a church potluck. As we worked side by side, she shared with me the story of how she had come to learn the recipe for Grits Pie.
"It was many years ago, when I was just a young bride," Mama Mae began, her eyes twinkling with nostalgia. "I was still learning my way around the kitchen, and I wanted to impress your granddaddy with a new dessert. That's when I stumbled upon this recipe in an old church cookbook."
Mama Mae went on to explain how she had followed the recipe to a tee, mixing together cooked grits, sugar, eggs, and vanilla before pouring the mixture into a flaky pie crust. She had baked it until the filling was set and golden brown, then served it up with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
"The first time I made that Grits Pie, your granddaddy took one bite and declared it the best dessert he had ever tasted," Mama Mae recalled with a smile. "From that day on, it became a family favorite, and I've been making it ever since."
As Mama Mae and I worked together to prepare the Grits Pie, she passed down her wisdom to me, teaching me the importance of patience, precision, and love in the kitchen. She showed me how to measure ingredients with care, how to mix and fold with a gentle hand, and how to bake with a watchful eye.
When the pie finally emerged from the oven, golden and fragrant, we couldn't resist cutting into it right away. The creamy filling was rich and comforting, with just a hint of sweetness that reminded me of childhood memories and lazy summer days.
As we sat down to enjoy a slice of Grits Pie together, Mama Mae shared with me the secret ingredient that made her version stand out from the rest: a pinch of nutmeg, which added a warm, spicy note to the sweet custard filling.
"Remember, child," Mama Mae said, her eyes twinkling with mischief, "the key to a good dish is not just the ingredients, but the love you put into it. That's what makes it truly special."
From that day on, Grits Pie became a staple in our family's recipe collection, passed down from generation to generation. Whenever I make it now, I think back to that hot summer day in Mama Mae's kitchen, and I can still feel the sense of anticipation and excitement that I felt when I first discovered this delicious dessert.
As I sit here now, surrounded by the warmth and aroma of a freshly baked Grits Pie, I can't help but feel grateful for the lessons Mama Mae taught me, both in and out of the kitchen. Her love and passion for cooking have inspired me to keep experimenting, keep learning, and keep sharing the joy of good food with those I love.
And so, as I take a bite of this sweet and creamy Grits Pie, I am reminded once again of the power of a simple recipe to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish not just our bodies, but our souls. And for that, I am truly thankful.