Cheesy Polenta or Grits

Today I decided to pay tribute to my favorite Great Aunt. I was simmering a pot of polenta when my mouth started watering for my Aunt Ruth’s cheesy grits. To me polenta is just a fancy Italian term for grits (Don’t tell tall and handsome. He thinks polenta is fab but can’t stand the other.) which is a good thing since living in California I have only been able to find quick grits, nasty stuff.

My Aunt Ruth’s  traditional breakfast fare included fried eggs, bacon, biscuits and cheesy grits. Talk about southern hospitality my friend. She really does have an enormous heart. She is fun and witty. Caring and supportive. Even though she never had children of her own she played the doting mother to several children myself and distant cousins included. It makes me sad to think my children will not get to really know her as we live on opposites sides of the US.

1 cup polenta
4 cups water
1/2 tsp salt
2 tbsp butter
1 1/2- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

Bring salt and water to a boil. Add polenta, reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes. Add butter and cheese. Make adjustments to taste.