Pan-Fried Cheese Grits

6 cups water

2 1/2 tsp. salt, divided

1 1/2 cups stone ground grits

6 tablespoons butter

3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 clove garlic , minced

2 cups flour

1/2 tsp. black pepper

4-6 tablespoons canola oil

Spray an 8 1/2 x 41/2 inch loaf pan with non stick spray.

In a large saucepan, combine the water, minced garlic and 1 1/2 tsp. salt. Bring to boil over medium – high heat. Gradually add grits, stirring to combine. Reduce to low. Cook stirring frequently, until grits are thick and creamy. Remove from heat, cool slightly. Add cheese and butter and stir until combined. Pour into prepared loaf pan and place in fridge until solid. Once solid, invert onto plate and gently slice loaf into 1/2 slices. Heat frying pan with oil over medium high heat and place slices in pan a few at a time. Fry until crispy and golden brown on both sides.

Magnolia Blossom’s Cheese Grits

1 cup regular grits, not quick cooking

4 cups half-and-half

1/4 cup butter

4 oz. mascarpone cheese, room temperature

1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese

1 head Roasted garlic

2 egg yolks, beaten

2 egg whites, beat stiff

Dry bread crumbs

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 1 1/2 quart casserole, set aside.

In a saucepan bring the half-and-half up to a boil and whisk in the grits and salt . Continue whisking until cooked .

Stir in the mascarpone, roasted garlic and the grated cheese. Temper the egg yolks a bit with some hot grits and add to the saucepan. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. Fold in the beaten egg whites. Pour into prepared baking dish , sprinkle with bread crumbs. Bake for 45 minutes and light golden on top.