Shrimp and Grits

An American classic with French and Italian influences, featuring tender shrimp and creamy, cheesy grits.
50m4Servings
Nutrition
1024kcal
63gProtein
55gCarbs
62gFat
Ingredients
SHRIMP
Shrimp
approx. cut in half lengthwise per person depending on their size
5 pieces
Garlic Olive Oil
1 tbsp
Shallots
chopped
2 tbsp
Scallions
cut into ¼ inch slices, light green and white separated from the dark green
8 pieces
Tomatoes
diced
1 cup
Garlic
chopped
2 tbsp
White Vermouth or Dry Cherry or Chicken Stock
3 oz
Parsley
chopped
2 tbsp
Butter
3 oz
Salt and Pepper
To taste
to taste
CORNMEAL
Butter
1 tbsp
Olive Oil
1 tbsp
Onion
finely minced
1 cup
Chicken Stock
2 cups
Stone Ground Cornmeal
1 cup
Frozen Corn
1 cup
Eggs
3 whole
Garlic
finely chopped or 3 Garlic Cloves
1 tbsp
Buttermilk
1 cup
Cheddar Cheese
approx. grated
3 oz
Reggiano Parmesan
approx. grated
3 oz
Goat Cheese
approx.
2 oz
Salt and Pepper
To taste
to taste
Equipment
Blender
Food Processor
Instructions
1Prepare the Shrimp
10m
Sauté Aromatics
In a sauté pan, heat the garlic olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shallots and cook for a couple of minutes until softened.
Cook Shrimp and Vegetables
Add the shrimp to the pan and cook for a few minutes. Stir in the diced tomatoes, scallions (both white and green parts), vermouth, chopped garlic, and parsley. Cook for a few more minutes until the shrimp are cooked through and no longer translucent.
Finish with Butter
Stir in the butter until melted and the sauce is slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2Make the Grits
30m
Sauté Onion
In a saucepan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced onion and sauté until translucent.
Add Stock and Cornmeal
Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the stone ground cornmeal to incorporate smoothly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to very low.
Cook and Thicken
Using a wooden spoon, stir the cornmeal mixture constantly, scraping the sides and bottom of the pot to prevent sticking or burning. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the polenta begins to thicken.
Blend Corn and Eggs
While the cornmeal cooks, combine the frozen corn, eggs, and finely chopped garlic in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth but still slightly chunky.
Incorporate Corn Mixture and Cheeses
Add the blended corn mixture to the simmering cornmeal. Continue to cook and stir over low heat, ensuring it doesn't stick to the bottom. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and goat cheese until well combined and melted.
Season and Finish
Cook for another 5-10 minutes until the polenta reaches your desired thick consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3Serve
5m
Assemble Dish
Spoon a generous portion of the creamy grits into shallow bowls. Top with the prepared shrimp and its sauce.
Tips
For creamier grits, ensure you stir frequently to prevent lumps and sticking.
Don't overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and opaque, not rubbery.
Adjust the amount of cheese to your preference for a richer or lighter flavor.