In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
Add Grits:
Gradually stir in 1 cup of stone-ground grits. Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent lumps.
Season:
Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Stir well.
Finish Grits:
Stir in 4 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Keep warm until ready to serve.
Preparing the Shrimp:
Cook Bacon:
In a large skillet, cook 6 slices of chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
Cook Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the bacon drippings and cook until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
Prepare Sauce:
In the same skillet, add 4 teaspoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley, 1 cup of thinly sliced green onions, and 1 large clove of minced garlic. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Combine:
Return the cooked shrimp and bacon to the skillet. Stir well to combine and heat through.
Serving:
Plate the Grits:
Spoon a generous portion of the creamy grits onto each plate.
Top with Shrimp:
Top the grits with the shrimp mixture.
Garnish:
Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.
Serve:
Serve immediately and enjoy this classic Southern dish!
Tips:
For extra flavor, you can cook the grits in chicken broth instead of water.
Adjust the amount of cheese to your liking for creamier or less cheesy grits.
You can add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Grits Consistency: If the grits become too thick while cooking, you can add a bit more water or milk to achieve the desired consistency.
Bacon Alternatives: If you prefer a different flavor, try substituting the bacon with pancetta or andouille sausage.
Variations:
Cajun Shrimp and Grits:
Add 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to the shrimp before cooking for a spicy kick. You can also add diced bell peppers and tomatoes to the sauce.
Creamy Shrimp and Grits:
Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the grits for an extra creamy texture.
Vegetable Shrimp and Grits:
Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the shrimp mixture for a more substantial dish.
Cheesy Shrimp and Grits:
Mix different types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan into the grits for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
FAQs:
Can I make shrimp and grits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grits and shrimp mixture ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. Add a splash of water or milk to the grits when reheating to maintain their creamy consistency.
What type of shrimp should I use?
Medium to large shrimp work best for this recipe. Make sure they are peeled and deveined for convenience.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels of any packaged ingredients to ensure they do not contain gluten.
Serving Suggestions:
Side Dish: Pair the shrimp and grits with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
Beverage: Serve with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea.
Final Thoughts:
Shrimp and Grits is a versatile and comforting dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. Its rich and savory flavors make it a favorite for many, and with a few variations, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this classic Southern recipe is sure to impress.
Printable Recipe Card:
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