GRITS PIE

Simple, southern and scrumptious, this pie will be a definite hit—even with people who dislike grits! It has the perfect custardy texture if you ask me.

—VICTORIA HUDSON PICKENS, SC



PREP: 15 MIN. • BAKE: 30 MIN. • MAKES: 10 SERVINGS


3/4 cup water

1/8 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup quick-cooking grits

1/2 cup butter, cubed

3/4 cup sugar

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

3 large eggs

1/4 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pastry for single-crust pie (9 inches)

Whipped cream, orange slices or sliced fresh strawberries, optional

1. In a small saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil. Slowly stir in grits. Reduce heat; cook and stir for 4-5 minutes or until thickened. Add butter; stir until melted. Remove from the heat; cool to room temperature.

2. In a small bowl, whisk the sugar, flour, eggs, buttermilk and vanilla. Slowly stir into grits. Roll out pastry to fit a 9-in. pie plate. Transfer pastry to pie plate. Trim pastry to 1/2 in. beyond edge of plate; flute edges. Add filling.

3. Bake at 325° for 30-35 minutes or just until set. Serve warm or cool to room temperature. Garnish with whipped cream and orange slices or strawberries if desired.