Cheesy Grits With Poached Eggs, Greens, and Bacon

Ingredients for Cheesy Grits With Poached Eggs, Greens, and Bacon

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• Kosher salt

• 240ml white grits (not instant)

• 110g bacon, coarsely chopped

• 1 Fresno or other red chilli, thinly sliced into rings

• 1 tablespoon Sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar

• 1 large shallot, finely chopped

• 8 cups torn Swiss chard leaves (from 1 large bunch)

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 170g cheddar, coarsely grated

Bring 1075ml water to a gentle simmer in a medium saucepan. Crack an egg into a small bowl, then gently slide egg into water. Repeat with remaining eggs, waiting until whites are opaque before adding the next one (about 30 seconds apart). Poach until whites are set but yolks are still runny, about 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer eggs to paper towels as they are done; set aside.

Fish out any wispy pieces of cooked egg with slotted spoon; discard. Bring same saucepan of water to a boil and add a couple pinches of salt. Whisking constantly, gradually add grits. Reduce heat to low, cover saucepan, and cook grits, whisking occasionally and scraping bottom to prevent sticking, until tender, thick, and creamy, 25–40 minutes, depending on coarseness.

Meanwhile, cook bacon in a medium skillet over medium-low heat, stirring often, until bacon is crisp, 8–10 minutes. Transfer bacon to a small bowl with slotted spoon. Combine chilli and vinegar in another small bowl.

Pour off all but 2 tablespoons fat from skillet; cook shallot, stirring often, until softened, about 3 minutes. Add chard in batches, letting it wilt slightly before adding more, and cook, tossing, until completely wilted, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and season with salt, pepper, and some chilli-soaking vinegar.

Remove grits from heat and season with salt and lots of pepper. Add butter, then gradually add cheese, whisking until melted and combined; thin with a bit more water if too thick.

Divide grits among bowls; top with chard, poached eggs, bacon, and chillies. Season eggs with salt and pepper.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.