Recipe of the Week: Shrimp and Grits

A soul-warming Southern classic that brings comfort and joy in every bite.

Originally hailing from the Southern United States, shrimp and grits is a dish that beautifully showcases the bounty of the coastal lowcountry. It started as a humble fishermen's breakfast in the Carolinas, combining fresh shrimp with creamy corn grits. Over time, this dish has become a Southern staple, celebrated for its hearty, comforting nature and a perfect blend of flavors. Known for its simplicity and versatility, shrimp and grits has been embraced far beyond the South, bringing a taste of southern comfort to any table.

🛒 Ingredients

For the grits

• 2 cups water
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

For the shrimp

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the sauce

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the grits

In a large saucepan, bring the water and chicken broth to a boil. Gradually stir in the grits and salt, reduce the heat to low, and simmer, stirring frequently, until the grits are thick and tender, about 20 to 25 minutes. Stir in the butter and cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 2: Season the shrimp

In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, lemon juice, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat the shrimp evenly and set aside to marinate for a few minutes.

Step 3: Cook the bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving the bacon drippings in the skillet.

Step 4: Cook the vegetables

Add the olive oil to the bacon drippings in the same skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Simmer the sauce

Pour the chicken broth and lemon juice into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Cook the shrimp

Add the seasoned shrimp to the simmering sauce in the skillet. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Assemble the dish

Spoon the creamy grits onto plates or shallow bowls. Top with the shrimp and sauce, then sprinkle with the cooked bacon and chopped parsley for garnish.