Hominy and Grits

One of the staples of my childhood was whole hominy in one form or another. There is a good deal of confusion in the minds of those who were not raised on it as to the difference between whole hominy and hominy grits. Whole hominy is made from the whole dried kernels of corn with the hull and germ removed. The kernels may be white or yellow. If dried kernels are used, they must be soaked or well simmered before using. Originally, the dried kernels were soaked in wood-ash lye and then well washed. That is why it is sometimes referred to as lye hominy. Canned hominy is excellent, and a lot more expedient to use than dried hominy. If you enjoy the flavor of tortillas, you will like the flavor of hominy, for they are both corn products and the flavors are very much akin.