Description
Southern comfort meets coastal charm in this mouthwatering Shrimp and Grits delicacy. Creamy stone-ground grits nestle beneath succulent seasoned shrimp, creating a classic Southern masterpiece that welcomes you to savor pure comfort on a plate.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
Liquid Ingredients:
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
Seasoning and Supporting Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped (red or green)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the creamy foundation by bringing liquid to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually incorporate grits while reducing heat, stirring consistently until the mixture transforms into a luxurious, velvety texture. Infuse with rich cream, sharp cheddar, smooth butter, and seasonings, maintaining warmth.
- Render bacon in a large skillet over moderate heat until achieving a crisp, golden crunch. Extract the bacon pieces, reserving the flavorful drippings. Introduce diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet, sautéing until they become translucent and tender.
- Incorporate minced garlic, allowing its aromatic essence to bloom briefly. Introduce seasoned shrimp, dusting with smoky paprika and fiery cayenne. Sear until the shellfish turn a vibrant pink, indicating perfect doneness.
- Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, carefully scraping accumulated flavor from the pan’s surface. Allow the liquid to reduce slightly, creating a luscious sauce. Swirl in butter and optional hot sauce for additional depth and complexity.
- Sprinkle reserved crispy bacon over the succulent shrimp, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
- Ladle the silky grits into serving vessels, crowning them with the decadent shrimp mixture. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of brightness and visual appeal.
- Present immediately, ensuring maximum enjoyment of this classic Southern delicacy while its temperature and texture remain optimal.
Notes
- Customize grits thickness by adjusting liquid, adding more broth or cream for softer texture or reducing liquid for firmer consistency.
- Swap heavy cream with milk or Greek yogurt for lighter, healthier version without compromising creamy richness.
- Select high-quality, fresh shrimp for optimal flavor and tender texture, preferably wild-caught for more robust taste.
- Experiment with bacon alternatives like turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon bits to accommodate different dietary preferences while maintaining smoky depth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dinner
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 1070 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 220 mg