Basic Grits

2 cups water
2 cups chicken broth
2 cups heavy cream
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1½ cups stone-ground grits
2 teaspoons hot sauce

Buy the best stone-ground grits you can find. Use only water if you like. Yield: 6 to 8 servings

Combine the water, chicken broth, cream, salt, and pepper in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat and cook until the mixture begins to simmer. Using a wire whisk, stir in the grits and lower the heat. Slowly simmer the grits for 18 to 20 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once the grits are thickened, remove them from the heat and stir in the hot sauce. Serve immediately, or store, covered, in a warm place until needed.