Shrimp and Grits
Shrimp and grits is a traditional dish that originated in the Southern United States, particularly in the coastal regions of the Carolinas and Georgia. It combines two main components: shrimp, which are typically sautéed or cooked in a flavorful sauce, and grits, which are a porridge-like dish made from coarsely ground cornmeal.
Ingredients
FOR THE GRITS:
1 cup yellow grits
4 cups water
1/2 tsp kosher salt
3 tbsp butter (salted or unsalted)
1/3 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or asiago)
FOR THE SHRIMP:
4 ounces high-quality bacon sliced or chopped into small pieces (about 5-6 strips)
1 lb 16/20 size wild shrimp peeled and deveined
4 scallions sliced
1 tbsp minced garlic
2 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
HOW TO MAKE THE GRITS:
To make the grits on the stove top, bring the water to a boil in a nonstick saucepan and add the grits and salt. Cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 20 minutes, until the water is absorbed. Then stir in the butter and cream, then the cheese. Taste and make any necessary seasoning adjustments.
HOW TO MAKE THE SHRIMP:
Place the bacon in a cold skillet, and turn the heat to medium. Render out the fat and cook the bacon until crisp, about 10 minutes.
Use a slotted spoon to scoop out the bacon bits, leaving the bacon grease and brown bits in the pan. Add the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 60 seconds.
Flip the shrimp over, season with salt and pepper, then add the scallions, garlic, lemon juice, Tabasco (if using), and the reserved crisped bacon.
Let the shrimp cook for another minute or two until cooked through, tossing the ingredients gently to meld the flavors. Take care not to overcook the shrimp, and keep in mind there will be a little bit of carryover cooking, so I undercook them slightly.
To serve, place the grits on the bottom of a bowl and scoop the shrimp on top. They taste best eaten together. Enjoy!
Thank you for trying this recipe. Please let me know how you liked it.
If you enjoyed this recipe, please take a look at other recipes on my fast, simple and good seafood page.
Shrimp and Grits