Crispy Fried Grit Cakes

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Golden and crispy on the outside, creamy and comforting on the inside—these Fried Grit Cakes are the ultimate Southern treat!

Whether you’re looking for a fun brunch side, an easy way to repurpose leftover grits, or just craving some good old-fashioned comfort food, this recipe has you covered.

Dip them in your favorite sauce, serve them alongside eggs, or enjoy them as a snack on their own.

Once you take a bite, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making these all along!

For Fried Grit Cakes

• Grits – Use freshly cooked grits for the best creamy texture.
• Flour – Helps create a light, crisp outer coating.
• Eggs – Acts as a binding agent to help the breadcrumbs stick.
• Seasoned Salt – Adds a boost of flavor to the grit cakes.
• Whole Milk – Makes the egg mixture smoother for better coating.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Gives a crunchy, crispy finish when fried.
• Oil – Used for frying until golden and crisp.

Crispy Fried Grit Cakes

Creamy on the inside, crispy on the outside—these Southern-style grit cakes are a must-try!

Print Pin

Course: Brunch, Side Dish

Cuisine: Southern

Keyword: Crispy Fried Grit Cakes

Prep Time: 1 hour hour 30 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes

Chilling Time: 8 hours hours

Total Time: 9 hours hours 40 minutes minutes

Servings: 8

Notes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups freshly cooked grits
• ½ cup flour
• 2 large eggs
• ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1 tablespoon whole milk
• 1 cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs
• Oil for frying

 

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Grits:
   Pour the hot, freshly cooked grits into a sheet pan or large dish, spreading them evenly to a thickness of no more than ½ inch. Allow them to cool at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate until fully chilled (at least 8 hours).
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
   • In a shallow bowl, beat together the eggs, seasoned salt, and milk.
   • Place the flour in a second bowl and the panko breadcrumbs in a third.
   • Arrange the bowls in order: flour, egg mixture, then breadcrumbs. Have a lightly floured plate ready for the coated grit cakes.
3. Shape and Bread the Grit Cakes:
   • Remove the chilled grits from the fridge and cut them into rounds or squares using a biscuit cutter or knife.
   • Carefully coat each piece in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally, coat with breadcrumbs. Use a spoon to gently press the breadcrumbs onto the cakes to avoid breaking them.
4. Freeze Before Frying:
   • Once all cakes are breaded, place them in the freezer for a few minutes to firm up while you heat the oil. This helps them maintain their shape during frying.
5. Fry the Grit Cakes:
   • Preheat your oven to 200°F to keep the cakes warm.
   • Heat a shallow layer of oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
   • When the oil is hot (test with a breadcrumb—it should sizzle), carefully place the grit cakes in the pan.
   • Fry for about 2 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
6. Keep Warm & Serve:
   • Transfer the fried grit cakes to a wire rack over a baking sheet and keep them warm in the oven while you finish frying the rest.
   • Serve hot and enjoy!

 

Nutrition

Calories: 107kcal | Carbohydrates: 15.25g | Protein: 4.75g | Fat: 3.625g | Saturated Fat: 0.687g
Cholesterol: 46.5mg | Sodium: 143.75mg | Potassium: 71mg | Fiber: 0.625g | Sugar: 1g
Vitamin A: 173.0IU | Vitamin C: 1.25mg | Calcium: 7.5mg | Iron: 0.25mg

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1. Can I use leftover grits to make grit cakes?
Absolutely! Fried grit cakes are an excellent way to repurpose leftover grits. Simply spread the leftover grits into a shallow dish, refrigerate until firm, then proceed with cutting and frying.

2. How do I prevent the grit cakes from falling apart during frying?
Chilling the cooked grits thoroughly before cutting is crucial. Once cut and breaded, placing the grit cakes in the freezer for a few minutes helps them firm up, reducing the chance of breaking during frying.

3. What type of grits should I use for this recipe?
Stone-ground grits are preferred for their texture and flavor, but quick-cooking grits can also work. Ensure they are cooked thoroughly and chilled properly before frying.

4. Can I add cheese or other flavors to the grits before frying?
Yes, incorporating ingredients like cheese, herbs, or spices into the grits before chilling can enhance the flavor of your grit cakes. For example, adding cheddar cheese creates delicious cheesy fried grits.

5. What’s the best oil temperature for frying grit cakes?
Maintain the oil at medium heat to achieve a golden-brown crust without burning the butter or the cakes. Frying at a moderate temperature ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior.

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