World Grits Festival dishes out heaping helpings of family fun

The Charleston Post and Courier ^ | 04/17/05 | Deneshia Graham

[blam]

The History Of Grits

Grits. They are an integral part of our food history. For nearly four hundred years, families have been enjoying this delicious food. Turner Catledge, former editor of the New York Times, called grits "the first truly American food." Grits date as far back as 1607, when the colonists came ashore at Jamestown, Virginia. They were met by friendly Native Americans offering steaming hot bowls of "rockahominie," which was softened maize seasoned with salt and animal fat. It was here that our passion for grits was born.

Throughout the years, grits have developed into a comfort food that many families enjoy not only for breakfast, but as a delicious side dish for meals as well. Known as the "Southern oatmeal" before air conditioning was invented; grits were preferred over oatmeal because they could withstand the heat and humidity found in the South.

Grits have also been credited with getting many Southern families through the Depression Era of the 1930's. Since grits were plentiful and inexpensive, they were a blessing during this bleak time in America's history.

As times have changed, grits have evolved from a regional food often used for survival to a food of choice and comfort in many American homes. Their convenience and delicious taste have made them a favorite for busy moms and their children. Grits have also gone upscale, being featured on menus in many five-star restaurants throughout the country.

[peacebaby]

"Grits have gone upscale....'"

The huge trend in the food at today's receptions, i.e. weddings, is a grits bar where grits are served in champayne glasses and topped with condiments such as bacon, tomatoes, cheese, etc.

[RebelBanker]

When I was doing a bit of traveling courtesy of Uncle Sam, I had the dubious privilege of eating at a number of Army mess halls. I love grits, but I learned quickly to NEVER get them north of the Potomac River. It seems that a lot of the cooks are actually local civilians and only the Southerners know how to cook grits properly. In the north, the grits were either watery or like half-cured concrete.

[blam]

...and then, Dr John Gorrie invented refigeration and air conditioning in Apalachicola, Florida.

[blam]

...and then, Dr John Gorrie invented refigeration and air conditioning in Apalachicola, Florida.

[smug]

Grits is groceries.

[billbears]

Man now I'm hungry. Grits and gravy (or with a dab of butter), pork chops, maybe some fried okra, and sweet tea could be my complete diet for a long time...

[peacebaby]

A story my husband told me: After months on a Navy ship, the cook got really wierd and through a huge spoonful of grits on another mate who was severely burned.

Grits as a weapon!

[varina davis]

Fresh fish fried in cornmeal 'till crisp and served with grits fixed any which way -- Ummmm