This delicious Southern recipe for creamy grits comes from chef Frank Stitt’s cookbook, Frank Stitt’s Southern Table.

• 4 cups water, preferably spring water
• Coarse salt and freshly ground white pepper
• 1 cup yellow stone-ground grits
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, or a little more if desired, at room temperature
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or Grana Padano cheese, plus more if desired

1. Hot sauce, such as Tabasco or Cholula
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil; add 1½ teaspoons salt. In a slow, steady stream, whisk in grits. Continue whisking constantly to prevent clumps until they come to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until grits are thickened and tender, 45 minutes to 1 hour.
4. Add butter and cheese, stirring to combine; season with salt and pepper. Add hot sauce, and more butter and cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.