Jamaican Grits Rice Cooker Optional

Transport your taste buds to the Caribbean with this vibrant and creamy Jamaican Grits recipe, perfect as a comforting side dish or a tropical-inspired main course. Made with stone-ground grits simmered in a rich blend of coconut milk, water, and aromatic seasonings like fresh thyme and ground allspice, this dish delivers layers of bold, island-inspired flavors. Whether prepared on the stovetop or effortlessly cooked in a rice cooker, this adaptable recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights. A touch of butter—or coconut oil for a vegan-friendly option—adds a luscious finish, while optional garnishes like shredded coconut and a drizzle of hot sauce elevate its taste and presentation. Pair it with jerk chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted vegetables for a meal bursting with Caribbean flair.

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Stone-ground grits
• 1.5 cups Coconut milk
• 1.5 cups Water
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2 Scallions (green onions), thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon Fresh thyme
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground allspice
• 2 tablespoons Butter (or coconut oil for vegan option)
• 2 tablespoons Shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon Hot sauce (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

In a medium-sized bowl, rinse the grits under cold water to remove any excess starch. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

If using a rice cooker, add the grits, coconut milk, water, and salt to the rice cooker pot. If cooking on the stovetop, combine the same ingredients in a medium saucepan.

Step 3

Add the scallions, fresh thyme, and ground allspice to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 4

If using a rice cooker, set it to the 'porridge' or regular cooking function and let it cook until the grits are tender and creamy, about 15-20 minutes. If using the stovetop, bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the grits are fully cooked and creamy, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 5

Once the grits are cooked, stir in the butter (or coconut oil for a vegan option) until fully melted and incorporated.

Step 6

Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt if desired.

Step 7

Serve the Jamaican grits hot, topped with shredded coconut for garnish (if using) and a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Step 8

Enjoy this creamy and flavorful dish as a stand-alone meal or a side dish, pairing well with jerk chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted vegetables.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1005.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1147.6

Total Fat 35.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 23.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 62mg	0%
Sodium 2563.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 190.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 7.4g	0%
Total Sugars 27.0g
Protein 15.9g	0%

Vitamin D 18IU	0%
Calcium 87.3mg	0%
Iron 1.9mg	0%
Potassium 689.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 28.0%

Protein: 5.5%

Carbs: 66.4%