When it comes to comfort food, few dishes resonate with Southerners and food enthusiasts as deeply as grits cakes. But what if you could elevate this humble staple into something that's both a culinary art form and a delightful dish for any meal? At the Bell Buckle Cafe, in the heart of Tennessee, the famous grits cake has become more than just a menu item; it's a culinary legend. In this post, we'll guide you through the process of making the Bell Buckle Cafe's signature grits cakes at home. Here’s a step-by-step guide to bringing this delicious piece of Southern cuisine into your kitchen.
The Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to start:
- 2 cups of water
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of stone-ground grits
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1⁄4 cup of chopped green onions
- 1⁄2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1⁄2 cup of panko bread crumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
The Cooking Process
Follow these steps for the perfect grits cake:
1. Cook the Grits
- Bring the water and milk to a simmer in a medium saucepan. Add the salt.
- Whisk in the grits slowly to avoid clumping. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the grits are creamy and thick, about 25-30 minutes.
- Remove from heat, stir in the butter and cheese until melted. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Grits Mixture
- Stir in the beaten egg and green onions into the grits.
3. Form and Chill
- Spread the grits mixture evenly into an 8x8 inch baking dish or a similar container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely set.
- Once chilled, cut the solidified grits into squares, rectangles, or your desired shapes.
4. Coat the Grits Cakes
- In a shallow dish, mix the flour, salt, and pepper. In another dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each grits cake in the flour mixture, then dip into a bowl of whisked eggs, and finally coat in panko.
5. Fry the Cakes
- In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1⁄4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Fry the coated grits cakes until they are golden brown on both sides. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
🍳 Note: Keep an eye on the oil temperature. If it's too high, the outside might burn while the inside remains uncooked.
Serving Suggestions
Grits cakes can be served in various ways:
- As a side dish - Great with a hearty Southern breakfast.
- Topped with toppings - Try with shrimp, salsa, or a poached egg.
- With dips - Serve with remoulade, hot sauce, or a spicy queso.
| Serving Options | Recommended Pairing |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | Scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage |
| Main Course | Shrimp, grilled vegetables, or salad |
| Appetizer | Sauces like hot sauce or salsa |
Now that you've learned to make Bell Buckle Cafe's famous grits cakes, you're well on your way to mastering this Southern delicacy. By following these steps, you ensure not just a meal, but an experience that captures the warmth and comfort of Southern cooking. Whether you're hosting a brunch or looking for a unique side dish, these grits cakes are sure to impress your guests or satisfy your own cravings for something truly comforting and delicious.
Can I make grits cakes ahead of time?
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Yes, you can prepare grits cakes in advance. After chilling and cutting them into shapes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can then bread and fry them when ready to serve.
What type of grits works best for grits cakes?
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Stone-ground grits are recommended for their texture and flavor, providing the best consistency for grits cakes.
Are grits cakes healthy?
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While grits cakes are not typically thought of as health food due to their frying process, you can make them healthier by baking instead of frying, using less oil, and choosing low-fat cheese options.
How do you reheat grits cakes?
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Reheat grits cakes in a toaster oven or a conventional oven at around 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through, maintaining their crispy exterior.
Can I freeze leftover grits cakes?
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Yes, grits cakes can be frozen after frying. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer bag or container to prevent sticking. Reheat from frozen using the oven to preserve texture.
