Randy Chandler
Cheese grits are a comforting staple that originated in the Southern United States. This creamy, indulgent dish is made from ground corn and enriched with rich cheese, butter, and milk. The calorie count of cheese grits varies depending on the brand and the specific ingredients used. On average, a cup of cheese grits contains between 210 and 233 calories. In addition to being a delicious source of carbohydrates, cheese grits also provide protein, fat, and energy.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210-233 |
| Protein | 8.6 grams |
| Fat | 9.4 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 28 grams |
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What You'll Learn
One cup of cheese grits contains around 233 calories
Cheese grits are a creamy dish made from ground corn, often enriched with cheese, butter, and milk. They are typically enjoyed as a side dish or at breakfast and are considered a comforting staple in the Southern United States. While they are indulgent, some adjustments can be made to make them healthier, such as using lighter cheeses or lower-fat milk.
In addition to the calories, cheese grits also provide a good amount of macronutrients. A cup of cheese grits contains approximately 8.6 grams of protein, 9.4 grams of fat, and 28 grams of carbohydrates. That translates to a macronutrient breakdown of about 39% carbohydrates, 46% fat, and 15% protein.
It's worth noting that the serving size for cheese grits can vary. One cup (around 240 grams) is considered a standard serving size, but some people may consume smaller or larger portions, which will affect the total calorie intake. Additionally, the type of cheese used in the grits can impact the calorie count, as different cheeses have varying calorie contents.
When preparing cheese grits, it's important to consider the overall calorie and nutritional content, especially if you have specific dietary goals or restrictions. While cheese grits are a tasty and indulgent treat, they can be made lighter by adjusting the ingredients, and they can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
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Cheese grits are made from ground corn
Cheese grits are a creamy, indulgent dish with approximately 233 calories per cup. They are made from ground corn, often enriched with rich cheese, butter, and milk. Originating from the Southern United States, this comforting staple is a perfect blend of flavours and textures. Typically enjoyed as a side dish or breakfast item, cheese grits are a delicious source of carbohydrates that will provide energy for your day.
Grits are made from coarse ground white cornmeal, although they can also be made from yellow cornmeal. They are similar to polenta, which is made from yellow cornmeal, but grits have a more neutral flavour and can be eaten either sweet or savoury. The Muscogee Indigenous peoples were among the first to make grits, pounding or grinding dried corn with stones to create a coarse cornmeal, which was then cooked into a soup or porridge. Stone-ground grits are made from whole kernel corn that has been pulverized in a stone mill to produce a more complex texture, ranging from larger bits down to a fine powder. They have a shorter shelf life than other types of grits due to the inclusion of the corn's bran, which contains oils that will go rancid over time.
To cook grits, a four-to-one ratio of water to grits is recommended, although more water can be added if the grits are too thick. Salt should be added to the water, and it should be brought to a boil before the grits are added, with frequent stirring for about 45 minutes. Slowly cooking the grits and stirring them often helps release their natural starches, creating a creamy texture and smooth consistency. In addition to water, chicken broth can also be used, and milk, cream, butter, or cheese can be added for a richer, creamier result. Quick-cooking grits have been more finely milled and take significantly less time to cook, between five and ten minutes. Instant grits are pre-cooked and dehydrated and are designed to be cooked by rehydrating with boiling water.
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They're often enriched with butter and milk
Cheese grits are a creamy, indulgent dish that originated in the Southern United States. They are typically made from ground corn and enriched with rich cheese, butter, and milk. This combination of ingredients gives cheese grits their characteristic creamy texture and decadent flavor. While they are often served as a side dish or breakfast item, they can also be enjoyed as a comforting and energizing staple at any time of the day.
The addition of butter and milk to cheese grits not only enhances their taste and texture but also contributes significantly to their nutritional content. Butter, for example, is a source of fat, which is essential for providing energy and aiding in the absorption of certain vitamins. Milk, on the other hand, is a good source of protein and calcium, both of which are important for maintaining muscle health and promoting strong bones.
When butter and milk are added to cheese grits, they become a more substantial and nutritionally balanced meal. The specific nutritional profile of cheese grits can vary depending on the type and quantity of butter and milk used. For instance, using whole milk will result in a higher calorie and fat content compared to using low-fat or skim milk. Similarly, the choice of butter can also impact the nutritional values, with options like clarified butter or plant-based butter offering different fat and calorie contents.
To make cheese grits even healthier, some simple substitutions can be made. For example, using lighter cheeses or lower-fat dairy options can reduce the overall calorie and fat content without compromising too much on taste. Additionally, experimenting with different types of milk, such as almond or oat milk, can add nutritional benefits while still maintaining the creamy texture.
While cheese grits are often enriched with butter and milk, it is important to remember that these ingredients can be adjusted to suit individual preferences and dietary needs. For those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet, for instance, plant-based alternatives can be used as substitutes without sacrificing the creamy texture and rich flavor of this Southern comfort food.
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Lighter cheeses can be used to reduce calories
Cheese grits are a creamy, indulgent dish originating from the Southern United States. They are typically made from ground corn, enriched with cheese, butter, and milk, and can be enjoyed as a side dish or breakfast item. While cheese grits are a delicious source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your day, they can also be high in calories, with one cup containing up to 233 calories.
To make this dish a bit healthier, you can opt for lighter cheeses, which can help reduce the overall calorie count. For example, choosing a lighter cheese with a lower fat content can reduce the number of calories from fat in the dish. Additionally, using a lower-fat milk can also decrease the calorie content of the grits.
When selecting a lighter cheese, consider the type of cheese and its nutritional profile. Some cheeses that are lower in calories and fat include part-skim mozzarella, feta, and Swiss cheese. These cheeses can provide a similar taste and texture to higher-calorie options but with a reduced calorie count.
By making these simple substitutions, you can enjoy the indulgent taste of cheese grits while keeping the dish lighter and healthier. For example, if you use part-skim mozzarella instead of a full-fat cheese, you can reduce the amount of saturated fat and calories in the dish without sacrificing taste.
It's important to note that the type of grits and cooking method can also impact the calorie count. Instant grits, such as Quaker Instant Grits, may have a slightly different nutritional profile compared to traditional grits. Additionally, the amount of cheese and butter added can vary, affecting the overall calorie content.
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They're a staple in the Southern United States
A cup of cheese grits contains approximately 233 calories, 8.6 grams of protein, 9.4 grams of fat, and 28 grams of carbohydrates. Cheese grits are made from ground corn, often enriched with cheese, butter, and milk. While they are rich and decadent, they can be made healthier by using lighter cheeses or lower-fat milk.
Cheese grits are a staple in the Southern United States, with three-quarters of all grits sold in the "grits belt," an area stretching from Lower Texas to Washington, D.C. The dish originated with the Native American Muscogee tribe, who made it using maize. American colonists learned how to make grits from the Native Americans, and it quickly became a staple in the South. The state of Georgia even declared grits to be its official prepared food in 2002.
In the Charleston, South Carolina area, cooked hominy grits were primarily referred to as "hominy" until the 1980s. Grits are commonly served as a breakfast side dish in the American South and can be either yellow or white, depending on the color of the maize used. The most common version found in supermarkets is "quick" grits, which are made from non-hominy maize with the germ and hull removed. Grits are often served with a variety of savory or sweet flavorings, with savory seasonings being more common.
In the South, grits are commonly served as a side dish with dinner entrées such as shrimp and grits, a traditional dish in the coastal communities of the South Carolina Lowcountry and Georgia's Lower Coastal Plain. They are also eaten with other foods such as eggs and bacon, fried catfish, salmon croquettes, or country ham. Grits are a symbol of Southern culture, customs, hospitality, and humor, and are enjoyed by people of all backgrounds in the region.
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Frequently asked questions
A cup of cheese grits contains around 233 calories, though this may vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used.
Yes, there are variations in cheese grits, such as "Gracious Grits", which contain 210 calories per cup. The calorie content can vary based on the type of cheese, butter, and milk used.
Cheese grits derive their calories primarily from carbohydrates (39%), fat (46%), and protein (15%).
Cheese grits can be a comforting and indulgent dish, but they are also a source of energy and nutrients. To make them healthier, one can opt for lighter cheeses or lower-fat milk.
