Shrimp and Grits: A Southern Classic
Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that brings together the rich flavors of the sea with the comforting texture of creamy grits. This dish is not only a staple in Southern cuisine but also a favorite for seafood lovers everywhere. Whether you are enjoying it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, shrimp and grits is sure to satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that highlights the best of Southern seafood.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound OceanBox Wild Colossal Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
To start, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits, reducing the heat to low. Cook the grits, stirring occasionally, until they are thick and creamy, about 20 to 25 minutes. Once cooked, stir in the cheddar cheese and 2 tablespoons of butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cover and keep warm.
While the grits are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan. In the same skillet, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet along with the Cajun seasoning. Cook the shrimp for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the crispy bacon, mixing everything together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
To serve, spoon a generous portion of the creamy grits onto a plate or bowl. Top with the shrimp mixture, making sure to include the flavorful sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions and a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
This shrimp and grits recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy Southern seafood at home. The combination of the savory shrimp, the richness of the cheese grits, and the smoky bacon creates a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether you are serving it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy your culinary journey into the heart of Southern cuisine!
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