Southern Style Shrimp and Grits for Weeknight Dinners
Introduction
Southern style shrimp and grits is a classic dish that brings together the flavors of the South in a comforting and delicious meal. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with creamy grits, flavored with bacon, onions, and spices. It’s the perfect dish for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that will transport you to the heart of the South.
Ingredients
To make Southern style shrimp and grits, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup of stone-ground grits
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 cup of milk
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pan.
2. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth and milk to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the grits are tender and creamy, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and butter until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. To serve, divide the creamy grits among plates and top with the cooked shrimp. Sprinkle with the crispy bacon and a pinch of Cajun seasoning for an extra kick of flavor.
Variations
– For a spicy twist, add diced jalapenos or hot sauce to the shrimp while cooking.
– For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and replace it with olive oil for sautéing the onions and garlic.
– Add diced bell peppers and celery for a more traditional Southern flavor.
– Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or smoked Gouda, to add a unique twist to the dish.
Tips
– Use stone-ground grits for the best texture and flavor. They have a coarser texture and a rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the shrimp.
– Be sure to season the shrimp with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance their natural flavors.
– Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery.
– If you prefer a smoother consistency for the grits, you can use an immersion blender or a food processor to puree them before adding the cheese and butter.
Conclusion
Southern style shrimp and grits is a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed any day of the week. Its creamy, cheesy grits and succulent shrimp make for a satisfying and comforting meal that will transport you to the South with every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to please.
FAQs
1. Can I use instant grits instead of stone-ground grits?
Instant grits can be used as a substitute for stone-ground grits, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be slightly different. Stone-ground grits have a coarser texture and a richer flavor, while instant grits are smoother and cook more quickly.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. Place the frozen shrimp in a colander and run cold water over them until they are completely thawed.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the grits are best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and bacon ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve. Just make sure to store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese to add your own twist to this dish. Pepper jack, smoked Gouda, or even Parmesan can all be used in place of the cheddar cheese.
5. Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! If you enjoy spicy food, you can add diced jalapenos or a few dashes of hot sauce to the shrimp while cooking. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
Remember to have fun and make this recipe your own by adding your favorite ingredients and flavors. Enjoy the taste of the South with this delicious Southern style shrimp and grits recipe!
