Buttered Grits

In a medium saucepan, combine 3 cups water, grits, and 1 1/4 teaspoons salt; bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally and scraping down sides of pan with a heatproof rubber spatula, until thick and creamy, about 25 minutes.

Remove from heat, add butter and 1/4 teaspoon pepper; stir until incorporated. Serve with hot sauce on the side, if desired.