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 is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something quick and satisfying. The creamy grits, savory shrimp, and flavorful sauce combine to create a dish that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re a fan of Southern cuisine or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So let’s dive in and learn how to make this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients
To make Southern style shrimp and grits, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound of fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup of stone-ground grits
– 4 cups of water
– 1 cup of milk
– 4 tablespoons of butter
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
– 1 can of diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Steps
1. Start by preparing the grits. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Slowly pour in the grits, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and let the grits simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are thick and creamy. Stir in the milk, butter, and shredded cheddar cheese until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Saute until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
5. To serve, divide the creamy grits among plates and top with the shrimp and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for added freshness and color. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations
There are several ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
– Add bacon: Fry some bacon until crispy and crumble it over the finished dish for an extra smoky flavor.
– Spice it up: If you like it hot, add some chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a fiery kick.
– Use different cheese: While cheddar cheese is traditional, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack to add a unique twist to the dish.
– Substitute the shrimp: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can use other seafood like scallops or crab meat instead.
Tips
– Use high-quality stone-ground grits for the best texture and flavor. Avoid instant or quick-cooking grits, as they will not yield the same creamy results.
– Don’t skimp on the seasoning. The Cajun seasoning adds a depth of flavor to the dish, so be generous with it. Adjust the amount according to your personal taste preferences.
– To make the dish even creamier, you can stir in some heavy cream or cream cheese into the grits.
– Serve the shrimp and grits with a side of sautéed greens or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
Conclusion
Southern style shrimp and grits is a true Southern comfort food that is perfect for weeknight dinners. The creamy grits, savory shrimp, and flavorful sauce come together to create a mouthwatering dish that will satisfy your cravings. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this classic Southern recipe in your own kitchen. So why not give it a try and indulge in the delicious flavors of the South?
FAQs
Q: Can I use instant grits instead of stone-ground grits?
A: While you can use instant grits in a pinch, the texture and flavor will not be the same as using stone-ground grits. Stone-ground grits have a coarser texture and a richer flavor, which is key to achieving the authentic Southern style shrimp and grits.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: The grits can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. However, the shrimp and sauce are best cooked and served fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Q: Can I substitute the milk for a non-dairy alternative?
A: Yes, you can use a non-dairy milk such as almond milk or coconut milk as a substitute for regular milk. However, keep in mind that it may alter the taste and texture of the grits slightly.
