Classic Shrimp and Grits Recipe

2022-11-02

By Southern Comfort Cookin'

Southern Cuisine

Main Course

This classic Shrimp and Grits recipe is a staple of Southern cuisine. 

A Gourmet Twist on Southern Classics

A combination of creamy, buttery grits and plump, succulent shrimp, typically served with a sauce or gravy made from bacon, onions, and garlicButter blended together to create a savory and satisfying dish. 

 Dive into Lowcountry Cuisine

A popular main course that originated in the southern region of the United States. The dish is particularly associated with the Lowcountry region of South Carolina and Georgia, but it is also enjoyed in other parts of the southern United States, including Louisiana and Texas. 

The African, European, and Native American Influences Behind Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits is a dish with a long history that dates back to the early days of the southern United States. The dish has its roots in the cuisines of both West Africa and the British Isles, as well as the indigenous ingredients and cooking techniques of the Southern United States. 

Pitfalls on Shrimp and Grits

 Cooking the grits: Grits are a staple in Southern cuisine and are made from ground cornmeal. Getting the texture of the grits right can be a challenge, as they can easily become lumpy or too thick. It's important to whisk the grits often while cooking and to add liquid slowly to avoid clumping. Using a combination of milk and water can also add richness and creaminess to the grits.

 Flavoring the grits: Grits should be seasoned to taste with salt and pepper, but they can be enhanced with additional flavors such as cheese, garlic, or scallions. Adding butter or cream can also help create a more indulgent and flavorful base for the shrimp.

 Preparing the shrimp: Shrimp should be peeled, deveined, and cleaned thoroughly before cooking. Overcooking shrimp can make them tough and rubbery, so it's important to cook them just until they turn pink. Adding garlic, lemon, and herbs can also enhance the flavor of the shrimp.

 Making the sauce: A flavorful sauce is crucial for shrimp and grits, and can be made from butter, garlic, chicken stock, and white wine. It's important to reduce the sauce until it's thick and glossy and to season it with salt and pepper to taste.

 Timing and plating: Shrimp and grits is best when served hot, and timing the cooking of the grits, shrimp, and sauce can be challenging. It's important to have all components ready and to plate them immediately to prevent any of the ingredients from getting cold or soggy. Plating the grits first and topping them with the shrimp and sauce can showcase the layers of flavor in this dish.

 Experimentation: Shrimp and grits is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit individual tastes. Some people prefer to add bacon, sausage, or ham to the dish, while others like to include vegetables such as spinach or tomatoes. Experimenting with different flavor combinations can add creativity and fun to this Southern classic.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quick-cooking grits

• 4 cups water

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

• 1/4 cup bacon, diced

• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced

• 1/4 cup white onion, diced

• 1/4 cup celery, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/4 cup chicken broth

• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

1. In a medium pot, bring the water to a boil. Stir in the grits and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are tender.

2. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, cook the shrimp until pink and no longer translucent. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

5. In the same skillet, cook the green onions, white onion, celery, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.

6. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and chicken broth, scraping any bits from the bottom of the skillet.

7. Return the shrimp and bacon to the skillet and stir in the butter until melted and evenly distributed.

8. Serve hot over the grits with extra green onions for garnish.

Preparation Time 20 min

Cook Time 30 min

Total time 50 min

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 480

Fat: 22 g

Saturated Fat: 12 g

Carbohydrates: 41 g

Fiber: 1 g

Sugar: 0 g

Protein: 27 g

Regional Ingredients Variations of Shrimp and Grits

South Carolina, they may use stone-ground grits and country ham with shrimp and a creamy sauce flavored with scallions, creating a dish known as "Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits".

Louisiana, they may use Creole seasoning and a spicy tomato-based sauce with sautéed shrimp and creamy grits, creating a dish known as "Creole Shrimp and Grits".

Georgia, they may use smoked sausage and bell peppers with shrimp and cheesy grits, creating a dish known as "Georgia Shrimp and Grits".

Maryland, they may add Old Bay seasoning to the shrimp and serve them with grits and sautéed spinach, creating a dish known as "Chesapeake Shrimp and Grits".

Texas, they may create a Tex-Mex twist on the dish, adding jalapenos, avocado, and a cilantro-lime sauce to the shrimp and grits, creating a dish known as "Tex-Mex Shrimp and Grits".

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