Simple Grits

Directions

1. 1
   Pour the milk and water into a 2-quart saucepan, cover, and turn the head to medium-high.
2. 2
   When the milk mixture boils (about 5 minutes), uncover the pot, add the grits and salt, and reduce the heat to medium.
3. 3
   Stir constantly until the grits are the consistency of thick soup and release a fragrant sweet-corn perfume, about 8 minutes.
4. 4
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring every 2 to 3 minutes, for about 20 minutes, until the grits thicken and fall lazily from the end of the spoon.
5. 5
   Cook about 15 minutes more, stirring constantly to prevent the grits from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
6. 6
   When the grits are creamy and fluffy and soft, turn off the heat, add the pepper and butter, and stir to incorporate.
7. 7
   Season to taste with salt and pepper, if desired, and serve immediately.