Classic Southern Shrimp and Grits
Published: 19/02/2025

Categories :Main Dishes . Fish and seafood
Serving size :4 people
Calories :550 kcal
Sugar :4.00 g
Fat :35.00 g
Carbohydrates :65.00 g
Protein :48.00 g
Cholesterol :60.00 g
Ingredients :
Instructions :
1Begin by preparing the grits: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water and 2 cups of milk to a gentle boil over medium heat.
2Gradually whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits, ensuring no lumps form.
3Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Cook the grits, stirring frequently, for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are thick and creamy.
4Stir in 4 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese into the grits until melted and smooth.
5Season the grits with salt and black pepper to taste. Keep warm and set aside.
6In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
7Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.
8Add 1 diced red bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
9Stir in 1 teaspoon of paprika and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, cooking for another minute.
10Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, stirring to combine.
11Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer.
12Add 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.
13Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque.
14Add 2 sliced green onions to the skillet and stir to combine.
15Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
16Serve the shrimp mixture over a bed of creamy grits.
17Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
18Enjoy your Shrimp and Grits while hot, savoring the rich and comforting flavors.
Notes :
- - Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
- - Stone-ground grits take longer to cook but offer a superior texture and flavor compared to instant grits.
- - Stir the grits frequently while cooking to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.
- - Adjust the consistency of the grits with additional milk or water if they become too thick.
- - Allow the cheese to melt completely into the grits for a smooth, creamy texture.
- - Season both the grits and shrimp mixture adequately with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- - Use fresh garlic for a robust flavor, but garlic powder can be a substitute if necessary.
- - Red bell pepper adds a sweet, mild flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
- - Adjust the level of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
- - Ensure shrimp are cooked just until pink and opaque to avoid a rubbery texture.
- - Use fresh lemon juice for the best brightness and acidity in the dish.
- - Green onions add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
- - Chopped fresh parsley provides a fresh, herbal note and brightens the presentation.
- - Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its peak flavor and texture.
Tips :
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture, or if using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
- Stone-ground grits can take longer to cook than instant grits, so be patient and check for desired creaminess.
- Stir the grits frequently to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pan or forming lumps.
- Feel free to add more cheese to the grits if you prefer a cheesier flavor.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your spice preference; you can increase or decrease the amount for more or less heat.
- Use a nonstick or well-seasoned skillet to prevent the shrimp from sticking.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the shrimp for a good sear, which enhances flavor and texture.
- Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. They should be pink and opaque when done.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow the liquid to reduce a bit longer before adding the shrimp.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning of both the shrimp and grits before serving to ensure they are flavorful.
- For added depth of flavor, you can substitute some of the chicken broth with seafood stock.
- Lemon juice adds brightness to the dish; fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best taste.
- Garnishing with fresh parsley not only adds color but also a fresh, herbal note that complements the flavors.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best, as grits can thicken as they cool.
- For a variation, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor.
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3.6 from 13 reviews
Classic Southern Shrimp and Grits
Servingsize: 4 people Calories: 550000 kcal Sugar: 4.00 g Fat: 35.00 g Carbohydrates: 65.00 g Protein: 48.00 g Cholesterol: 60.00 g
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