Jalapeño Cheese Grits (Vegan)

Name: Vegan Jalapeño Cheese Grits
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Stone-ground grits; 4 cups Water; 1 cup Vegan cheddar; 1 Jalapeno (diced); 1 ½ - 2 cups Dairy-free creamer or milk; 4 ounces Vegan butter; Spray oil; Salt; Chives (optional, for garnish)

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These stone-ground Jalapeño Cheese Grits will make you feel like you're eating in the low country! Whip this flavorful, dairy-free recipe up in no time using the Instant Pot, or cook them on your stovetop.

photo of grits in a bowl with butter and chives on top

If you're from the south, you've definitely at least heard of grits before. Grits are ground up corn, which is then boiled into a sort of porridge consistency. Many know of grits by the popular southern brunch dish, Shrimp & Grits.

Personally, I've always loved grits as a savory breakfast item. Some say that grits are just a vessel to get butter, cheese, and salty carbs into your mouth...and I can't say that I disagree. It is delicious! Pair this with a healthy Kale Salad to counteract the richness!

This recipe uses dairy-free creamer and cheese to make a creamy, savory dish totally vegan!

Want a low carb version? Try my Vegan Cheesy Cauliflower Grits!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Transports you to the South! One bite and you'll feel like you're indulging on the coast of South Carolina or Georgia!
Creamy Breakfast or Side Dish - This works so well as a breakfast item, a side dish to proteins, and–of course– a base for some shrimp!
Quick & Dairy-Free - This recipe is quick when made in the Instant Pot, and

What You Need For This Recipe

Ingredients and Substitutions:

Stone Ground Grits - Be sure to use stone-ground yellow or white corn grits. Instant grits will not yield the same result!
Water - Or vegetable broth for boiling
Salt
Vegan Cheddar - Shredded vegan cheddar is the best option for this recipe. I love using VioLife cheddar shreds, but any brand will work!
Jalapeno - I used 1 jalapeño without the seeds or stem. One jalapeño will not make these grits spicy. If you like spicy, consider adding more.
Non-dairy Milk or Creamer - If you can find non-dairy creamer, that is best. If not, any plant-based milk will work! I found this one by Lavva at Whole Foods and it worked very well.
Vegan Butter

Equipment:

Instant Pot/Pressure Cooker or Regular Pot
Whisk
Knife
Large spoon or spatula

How to make this recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Grits

First, finely dice or mince 1 jalapeño without the seeds or stem.

Turn the Instant Pot to sauté and spray a small amount of oil. Saute the jalapeño until slightly soft.

Measure out the grits and water and add them both to the Instant Pot or stovetop along with salt. Lightly whisk to ensure no clumps.

Close the lid on the instant pot with the valve set to sealing and pressure cook on high for 10 minutes, then natural release for 15 minutes.

For the stovetop: Add all of the grits and water and salt to a large pot and bring to a boil. Cover with a lid and cook, stirring occasionally, until the water has all been absorbed. This may take 30-45 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Flavor

Once the grits are cooked and the pin has dropped in the Instant Pot, remove the lid and stir the grits.

Immediately add the butter so that it melts while still hot.

Add the vegan cheddar as well as the dairy-free creamer.

Continue stirring until the cheese begins to get melty.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

Serve in a bowl and garnish with chives (optional).

Photo of cooked grits in a bowl with chives

Expert Tips

If you choose to cook this on the stovetop, I suggest using a whisk and stirring every few minutes. It will take much longer to cook on the stove
Feel free to adjust the level of spice by increasing or decreasing the amount of jalapeño used. I used 1 jalapeño here and it was not spicy at all, but it did impart the jalapeño flavor.
Be sure to use stone-ground grits to ensure proper cooking. Instant grits are processed differently and you will not get the same result.

Recipe FAQs

What can I add to grits to make it taste better?

On their own, grits have a very mild flavor. Adding things like cheese, butter, salt, and jalapeños, all increase the flavor. Think of grits like a canvas to make whatever flavors you want!

Are grits the same as polenta?

At their origin, grits are the same as polenta since they are both ground corn. Polenta is usually made from yellow corn where grits are often made from white corn (but can be made from either). Polenta is also usually a finer ground, thus being less "gritty."

Are grits better with milk or water?

Grits can be cooked in milk, water, or broth. In this recipe, I use water, but you can substitute broth. I would only use milk if cooking grits on the stovetop to prevent burning. Grits will absorb any flavor, so a flavorful broth would make this delicious.