Whole Food Plant Based Microwave Grits

What You Need

• Grits or Polenta: A coarsely ground corn product, perfect for a hearty breakfast.
• Water: The main liquid for cooking the grits.
• Non-dairy milk: For creaminess and richness.
• Liquid smoke: Adds a smoky flavor reminiscent of traditional recipes.
• Nutritional yeast: For a cheesy flavor and added nutrients.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor.

How to Make

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making your grits delicious:

• Grits or Polenta: This is the base of our dish. You can choose between white or yellow varieties, and there are even organic options.
• Water: Essential for cooking the grits to the right consistency.
• Non-dairy milk: This adds a creamy texture and richness that makes the grits feel indulgent.
• Liquid smoke: A little goes a long way in adding a depth of flavor, especially if you miss that smokiness from traditional recipes. 
• Nutritional yeast: This is a fantastic way to add a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Instructions

You are going to be thrilled and surprised at how easy this is.

1. First, grab your microwave-safe bowl. You can use any bowl, but I love using the Anyday microwave bowls because they are glass and free of plastic.

Next, add one cup of grits to the bowl.

Then, pour in four cups of water. You could mix it up by using two cups of water and two cups of non-dairy milk if you want it extra creamy.

Add a few drops of liquid smoke. This is optional but recommended for that smoky flavor. You can always use smoked paprika if that’s what you have.

Whisk everything together a bit to make sure it’s well combined. Now, pop it in the microwave for about 11 minutes.

If you have a 1200-watt microwave, it should be done, but it will take longer if your wattage is lower. Just whisk and put it back in the microwave for more cooking.

Make sure you have enough space in the bowl to prevent it from boiling over! Use the Anyday large deep for the full recipe or the medium deep for 1/2 of the recipe. Otherwise, use a tall Pyrex or other microwavable dish.

Once the microwave beeps, carefully take it out (it will be hot!). Whisk the grits again and check the consistency. You can add more water or non-dairy milk if it’s too thick.

Finally, season with salt or salt substitute and pepper to taste, and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant grits instead of regular grits?

I think that should work, but they may require less water and a shorter cooking time.

What’s the difference between grits and polenta?

Nothing. They are both coarse ground corn that can be white or yellow. Traditionally yellow corn is used for polenta and white corn for grits, but there’s no taste difference.

Can I add other ingredients to my grits?

Definitely! You can mix in sautéed vegetables, vegan cheese, or even plant-based sausage for added flavor and nutrition.

Be sure to try my gluten-free potato-based homemade sausage.

How do I store leftover grits?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will thicken as they cool but can be reheated in the microwave with a splash of water or non-dairy milk to loosen them up.

You can also let them cool in a loaf pan or square pan and cut pieces after it’s thickened. Then pop in the air fryer or pan sear for a crisp base for dinner.

How can I make these grits more flavorful?

Try adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or some hot sauce. I love adding sausage spices because then it tastes like the instant ones I ate as a child.

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