Nashville Hot Cauliflower Grits: A Spicy Twist on a Southern Classic

Nashville Hot Cauliflower Grits are a delightful twist on a Southern classic that brings a spicy kick to your dining table. As someone who has always been captivated by the rich culinary traditions of the South, I find that these grits not only pay homage to their roots but also offer a modern, healthier alternative. The combination of creamy cauliflower and the bold flavors of Nashville hot seasoning creates a dish that is both comforting and exciting.

People love Nashville Hot Cauliflower Grits for their unique texture and flavor profile. The smooth, velvety grits provide a perfect canvas for the fiery spices, making each bite a delicious adventure. Plus, this dish is incredibly convenient to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a taste of Nashville without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, Nashville Hot Cauliflower Grits are sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup grits (stone-ground preferred)
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Preparing the Grits

1. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. I love using vegetable broth for an extra layer of flavor, but water works just fine too.
2. Once boiling, slowly whisk in 1 cup of grits. This helps prevent clumping and ensures a smooth texture.
3. Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Let the grits simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to be creamy and tender. If they seem too thick, feel free to add a splash more water or broth.
4. While the grits are cooking, prepare the cauliflower. Steam or boil the cauliflower florets until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes. You can also roast them for a deeper flavor if you prefer. Just toss them in a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes.

Making the Cauliflower Mixture

1. Once the cauliflower is cooked, transfer it to a food processor. Add the butter, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
2. Pulse the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy. You can adjust the seasoning here, adding more cayenne if you like it spicier or more salt to taste.
3. Once the grits are done cooking, stir in the cauliflower mixture until well combined. This is where the magic happens! The cauliflower adds a wonderful creaminess and a subtle flavor that pairs perfectly with the grits.
4. Next, fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it melts into the warm grits. The cheese adds a rich, savory element that makes this dish truly indulgent.

Preparing the Nashville Hot Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the hot sauce, olive oil, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. This mixture will give your grits that signature Nashville hot flavor.
2. Whisk everything together until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce is well combined. Taste it and adjust the heat level by adding more hot sauce or cayenne if you like it extra spicy.

Assembling the Dish

1. To serve, spoon a generous portion of the cauliflower grits into a bowl. I like to make a little well in the center to hold the sauce.
2. Drizzle the Nashville hot sauce over the top of the grits. Don’t be shy with the sauce; it’s what makes this dish so special!
3. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch. The green onions add a nice crunch and a pop of color that makes the dish even more appealing.
4. For an extra kick, you can sprinkle a little more cayenne pepper on top if you’re feeling adventurous!

Serving Suggestions

These Nashville Hot Cauliflower Grits are perfect as a hearty breakfast or a comforting dinner. You can serve them alongside fried chicken, sautéed greens, or even a poached egg for a delicious brunch option. They also make a fantastic side dish for any Southern-inspired meal.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so good!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To

Conclusion:

In summary, Nashville Hot Cauliflower Grits is a must-try recipe that beautifully marries the comforting texture of grits with the bold, spicy flavors of Nashville hot chicken. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also offers a healthier twist by incorporating cauliflower, making it a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy a classic Southern dish without the guilt. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing these grits with some crispy fried pickles or a side of sautéed greens to balance the heat. You can also experiment with variations by adding cheese for a creamier texture or topping it with a poached egg for a delightful brunch option. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the explosion of flavors for yourself. Don’t forget to share your experience and any personal twists you add to the dish! I’d love to hear how your Nashville Hot Cauliflower Grits turn out. Happy cooking! Print