Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add grits and stir with a wooden spoon. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add red bell pepper, yellow onion, and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. Add milk to the skillet and whisk until combined. Add Parmesan cheese and whisk until melted and smooth.
5. Add cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir until coated in the sauce.
6. Serve shrimp and sauce over the cooked grits. Garnish with chopped green onions.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Grits: Simmer on low heat
- Shrimp: Cook on medium-high heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 438
- Fat: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 29g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Shrimp: Can be substituted with chicken or sausage
- Milk: Can be substituted with almond milk or coconut milk
- Parmesan cheese: Can be substituted with cheddar cheese or goat cheese
- Cajun seasoning: Can be substituted with chili powder or paprika
Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes to the sauce for a fresh twist
- Use smoked Gouda cheese instead of Parmesan for a smoky flavor
- Add sliced mushrooms to the vegetable mixture for an earthy taste
Tips and tricks:
- Use stone-ground grits for the best texture and flavor
- Cook the shrimp just until pink to prevent overcooking and toughening
- Whisk the milk and cheese together to prevent clumping
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover shrimp and grits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a shallow bowl for a rustic look
- Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color
Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions
- Chopped parsley or cilantro
- Lemon wedges
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad for a light meal
- Pair with a glass of white wine or a cold beer
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
- Sautéed spinach
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the grits are too thick, add more water or milk to thin them out
- If the shrimp are overcooked, they will be tough and rubbery. Cook just until pink.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the shrimp to an internal temperature of 145°F to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that originated in the Lowcountry of South Carolina and Georgia.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish for lunch or dinner
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