Directions

1. Pour 1 cup of grits into a large bowl and cover with cold water.

2. Skim or pour off the chaff as it floats to the surface. Repeat.

3. Bring 2 1/2 cups of water to a boil in a medium-size saucepan.

4. Add 1 teaspoon salt and slowly stir in the grits. Cook at a simmer, stirring frequently, until the grits are done — they should be quite thick and creamy — about 20 minutes.

5. Add milk, cream, or half and half for consistency. Add salt and pepper to taste.