Looking for a delicious, nutritious, and filling breakfast option? Look no further than 1/4 cup (39 g) of Yellow Corn Grits Hot Cereal! With 140 calories per serving, you can start your day off right with a warm bowl of this classic dish.

In addition to being low in calories, Yellow Corn Grits are also a great source of several important nutrients. They are rich in fiber, which can help keep you feeling full throughout the morning, and are also a good source of protein and complex carbohydrates.

But what exactly are Yellow Corn Grits, and how should you cook and serve them for maximum enjoyment? Read on to learn more!

What Are Yellow Corn Grits?

Yellow Corn Grits are a type of hot cereal made from ground yellow corn. They are often used as a breakfast food, but can also be enjoyed as a side dish or as part of other recipes. Grits are a staple food in Southern cuisine, and are typically made by boiling cornmeal with water or milk until thickened to a porridge-like consistency. Yellow Corn Grits can be served as a simple porridge with butter and salt, or can be seasoned and topped with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, eggs, bacon, or vegetables. They can also be used as a base for dishes like grits casseroles, grits bowls, or grits and gravy.

Calories in Yellow Corn Grits

A 1/4 cup serving of Yellow Corn Grits contains around 140 calories, depending on the brand and preparation method. This makes them a relatively low-calorie breakfast option, especially compared to more indulgent choices like pancakes or waffles. However, it's important to keep in mind that the calorie count can quickly add up if you add lots of butter, cheese, or other high-calorie toppings to your grits. To keep the calorie count in check, try seasoning your grits with herbs and spices instead of butter or oil, and adding fresh vegetables or lean proteins to boost the nutritional value without adding too many extra calories.

Macronutrients in Yellow Corn Grits

In addition to being relatively low in calories, Yellow Corn Grits also provide a variety of important macronutrients. One serving typically contains around 30 grams of carbohydrates, including 2 grams of dietary fiber and 1 gram of sugar. They also contain around 3 grams of protein and 1 gram of fat. While not the most protein-rich or nutrient-dense food out there, Yellow Corn Grits can still be a healthy part of a balanced diet when combined with other nutritious foods like fresh fruits and veggies, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Micronutrients in Yellow Corn Grits

Yellow Corn Grits are also a good source of several important micronutrients, including iron, thiamin, and niacin. One serving of grits can provide up to 25% of your daily recommended intake of iron, a key mineral that helps transport oxygen throughout the body and can help prevent anemia. However, it's worth noting that grits are not naturally rich in many other micronutrients like vitamins and minerals, so it's important to pair them with other nutrient-dense foods to ensure you're getting a well-rounded diet.

Benefits of Yellow Corn Grits

In addition to their low calorie count and nutrient-rich profile, Yellow Corn Grits may also offer several other health benefits. For one thing, they are a good source of resistant starch, a type of fiber that can feed beneficial gut bacteria and may help improve digestive health. Grits may also help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease, thanks to their high fiber content and low levels of saturated fat. And as a low-glycemic-index food, they can help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent energy crashes throughout the day.

How to Cook Yellow Corn Grits?

To cook Yellow Corn Grits, you'll typically start by boiling water or milk in a pot, then gradually whisking in the grits until they thicken and fully absorb the liquid. Depending on your personal preference, you can adjust the amount of liquid you use to make your grits creamier or thicker. You can also add flavor to your grits by seasoning them with salt, pepper, herbs, or spices during the cooking process. Once your grits are fully cooked, you can serve them immediately or reheat them later on as desired.

Serving Suggestions for Yellow Corn Grits

While Yellow Corn Grits are delicious on their own, they can also be dressed up with a variety of toppings and mix-ins to create a more satisfying and varied breakfast. Some popular serving suggestions include:

• Butter and salt
• Cheese and herbs
• Bacon and eggs
• Shrimp and grits
• Grits and gravy

The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations until you find your perfect match!

Yellow Corn Grits vs Oatmeal: Which is Better?

Both Yellow Corn Grits and oatmeal are popular hot cereals that offer a range of health benefits. While both can be part of a healthy diet, there are some key differences between the two. Oatmeal is made from whole-grain oats and is rich in fiber, protein, and several important micronutrients like iron and magnesium. It may also help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Yellow Corn Grits, on the other hand, are made from ground yellow corn and are slightly lower in calories and carbs. They are also a good source of resistant starch and may offer some unique health benefits like improving gut health and stabilizing blood sugar levels.

Are Yellow Corn Grits Gluten-Free?

Yes! As long as they are made from pure cornmeal, Yellow Corn Grits are naturally gluten-free and safe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity to consume.

Where to Buy Yellow Corn Grits?

Yellow Corn Grits can be found at most grocery stores, either in the breakfast cereal aisle or the baking aisle with other types of flours and grains. Look for brands like Quaker, Bob's Red Mill, and Arrowhead Mills, or check your local natural food store for bulk bins of organic grits. You can also order Yellow Corn Grits online from retailers like Amazon or directly from specialty grits producers like Anson Mills and Carolina Plantation.