Did you know that polenta and grits are almost the same thing? Polenta is a staple of Italian cuisine, whereas grits are a Southern staple. While polenta is made from ground yellow corn, grits are made from white corn (also called hominy).  The most notable difference between the two is in the texture: polenta is much coarser, whereas grits are finer.

Ingredients:

• 3 1/4 c milk
• 1 c quick cooking grits
• 1 tsp salt, divided
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper, divided
• 1/4 c butter
• 1/4 c grated white Cheddar
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Directions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the milk to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the grits, 1/2 teaspoon of the salt, 1/4 teaspoon of the pepper, and the butter.
3. Cook and stir frequently, until the grits are soft.
4. Stir in cheese and bacon.
5. Set aside and keep warm.

Serves: 4-5