Delicious Dishes: Shrimp and Cheese Grits

 

This classic southern dish is one of my favorite comfort foods.  Cheesy, creamy grits, and spicy, crispy shrimp are a match made in culinary heaven.  This dish can be served for breakfast or dinner so no matter what time of day you're reading this, let's get this mouth party started!

 

First, the spice mix for the shrimp.  In a bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika (smoked is best), cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.  Put your clean, deveined shrimp in a bowl and sprinkle the spice mixture over the shrimp. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the shrimp and seasoning and then give that shrimp a tasty little massage.  Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes.

 

 

Saute shrimp in a little more olive oil (1-2 tablespoons) until they are opaque and have a browned and crispy coating.  Set aside.

 

 

 

Prepare grits according to package directions to make a cup of cooked grits.  For extra flavor, replace water with chicken broth or stock. 

 

 

 

 Once your grits are done, remove them from the heat and stir in 1/2 cup of cheddar or havarti cheese (or both), a teaspoon of garlic powder, and a tablespoon of hot sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste.

 

 

 

 

Place your grits in a bowl and top with the shrimp.  Rough chop the green onions and sprinkle over the shrimp and grits.  ENJOY!

 

 

 

 

Spice Mix  (Makes about 2 tablespoons)

 

1 tbsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp paprika

1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

 

Shrimp and Cheese Grits

 

1 pound shrimp, cleaned and deveined

2 tbsp spice mix

1 cup grits (cooked according to package directions)

1/2 cup shredded cheddar and/or havarti cheese

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tablespoon hot sauce

2 green onions

3 tablespoons olive oil

salt and pepper to taste

 

Combine spice mix, shrimp and 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a bowl, mix well and let sit for 15-20 minutes.  Saute shrimp in 2 tablespoons of olive oil until browned.  Set aside. 

 

Prepare grits according to package directions and remove from heat.  Stir in 1/2 cup of cheese, garlic powder, and hot sauce.  Add salt and pepper to taste.

 

Chop green onions.  Place grits in bottom of bowl top with cooked shrimp and sprinkle with green onions.  Makes 2 servings.