Bacon Scallion Cream Cheese Grits Food

CREAMY CHEDDAR GRITS

Steps:

• Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a heavy 4-quart saucepan. Add the salt, then slowly add the grits in a thin, steady stream, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the grits thicken, about 5 to 7 minutes.
• Add the half-and-half and butter to the grits and stir. The mixture will seem thin but it will thicken as it cooks. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and cook, stirring occasionally for 45 minutes, until very smooth and creamy. Off the heat, stir in the Cheddar, scallions, and pepper. Season to taste and serve hot with a sprinkle of grated cheese and scallions.

PIMENTO CHEESE GRITS

Steps:

• Put the bacon in a medium pot over medium heat and cook until crisp, 8 to 12 minutes. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate.
• Add the scallion whites and garlic to the pot to cook in the residual bacon fat. Cook, stirring, for a minute or two, then pour in the warmed stock. Raise the heat and bring it to a boil.
• Slowly whisk in the grits. Cook until the liquid is all absorbed, about 5 minutes, then stir in the cream cheese, pimentos, Cheddar, Monterey Jack, adobo, mustard, salt and pepper to taste and half of the reserved bacon. Serve garnished with the remaining bacon and reserved scallion greens.

BACON-SCALLION CREAM CHEESE SCHMERE

Steps:

• Combine all ingredients in a small bowl.
• Chill until ready to use.
• Store refrigerated for up to 2 days.