what exactly is a grit?

we found ourselves hungry today and the question of lunch or breakfast came up because it was 11. the hubby whipped out a cookbook to find something to try. the recipe is from Southern Living 1984 Annual Recipes. my hubby being ever the southern gentleman picked something with grits. we had the Grits-Sausage Casserole.

Grits-Sausage Casserole

1 c. quick-cooking grits

1 lb. bulk pork sausage

1 small onion, chopped

1/3 c. chopped green pepper

1 1/2 c. (6 oz) shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

cook grits according to package directions; set aside. crumble sausage in a large skillet; add onion and green pepper. cook over medium het until meat is browned and vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally. drain well.

combine grits, meat mixture, and 1 cup cheese. spoon into lightly greased 10 x 6 x 2 inch baking dish. bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup cheese; bake an additional 5 minutes or until cheese melts. yeild 8 servings.

we didn't have sausage, bell pepper, or cheddar cheese, so we improvised. we used ground turkey and seasoned it with sausage seasoning. we had green chilis so we used those instead of the bell pepper. we had mozzerella, but just sprinkled it on top. i know i can't follow instructions, but that's nothing new right. it was so good we had double portions. most often breakfast casseroles are heavy and egg laden, so it was kind of nice that this didn't sit real heavy on the stomach. it had great staying power. i wasn't snacky all day, how awesome is that.

we will be having shrimp etouffe tomorrow for dinner, a cool grape drink on friday, and scandanavian satuday. you don't want to miss any of that do you? let me know what you think.