Description
A beloved Southern comfort food classic featuring succulent shrimp in a savory, aromatic sauce served over rich, creamy stone-ground grits. This comprehensive guide ensures a deeply flavorful and authentic dish.
Ingredients
Section 1: For the Creamy Grits
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups vegetable broth OR chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- to taste Salt
- to taste freshly ground black pepper
Section 2: For the Savory Shrimp and Sauce
- 1.5 pounds large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 1 large red bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 celery stalk (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 cup vegetable broth OR chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped (for garnish))
- to taste Salt
- to taste freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Instruction Group 1: Prepare the Creamy Grits
- Combine Liquids: In a medium saucepan, combine the vegetable or chicken broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add Grits Slowly: Once boiling, slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits. Reduce the heat immediately to low, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Simmer and Stir: Cover the saucepan and simmer on low heat for 30-45 minutes, stirring every 5-7 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If the grits become too thick, add a splash more hot broth or water.
- Finish Grits: When the grits are tender and creamy, remove them from the heat. Stir in the butter, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream (if using) until melted and fully incorporated. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cover to keep warm while you prepare the shrimp.
Instruction Group 2: Prepare the Shrimp and Aromatics
- Season Shrimp: Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Instruction Group 3: Cook the Shrimp and Create the Sauce
- Deglaze with Broth: Pour in the 1 cup of vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan – this adds incredible depth of flavor.
- Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the simmering sauce. Cook for only 2-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
- Serve: Ladle a generous portion of the creamy grits into shallow bowls. Spoon the shrimp and plenty of the flavorful sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Notes
Grits Choice: For the most authentic and creamy grits, use stone-ground grits. They take longer to cook but offer a superior texture compared to quick-cooking or instant varieties.
Shrimp Doneness: Do not overcook the shrimp! They cook very quickly (2-4 minutes) and can become rubbery if left on the heat for too long.
Leftovers: Leftover grits can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk until creamy again. Reheat shrimp and sauce gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Seasoning: Remember to taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process, from the grits to the shrimp sauce, for the best-balanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: American