Southern Shrimp & Grits is a classic and hearty Southern dinner that embodies the essence of comfort food. This stick-to-your-ribs dish combines fresh shrimp, a colorful medley of peppers and onions, and creamy cheese grits. Melissa Hass from Gilbert, South Carolina, shares this beloved recipe that perfectly captures the traditional flavors of the South. The meal is wonderfully complemented with cornbread and sliced tomatoes, adding a touch of Southern charm to the dining experience.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup quick-cooking grits
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 package (14 ounces) frozen pepper strips, thawed
- 4 teaspoons olive oil
- 12 uncooked jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ¼ cup minced fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
PREPARATIONS:
- In a large saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Slowly stir in the quick-cooking grits. Reduce the heat and cook and stir for 5-7 minutes, or until the grits are thickened.
- Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute the sliced onion and thawed pepper strips in olive oil until they are crisp-tender. Add the jumbo shrimp, minced fresh parsley, and lemon juice. Saute for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink.
- Stir the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and sour cream into the cooked grits. Serve the grits with the sauteed shrimp mixture.
YIELD: 4 servings
PREP/TOTAL TIME: 30 minutes
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- For extra flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth or a high-quality store-bought option for the grits.
- Customize the dish by adding your favorite spices or seasoning to the shrimp mixture, such as Cajun seasoning for a kick of heat.
TIPS:
- When cooking the grits, stir them occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure an even texture.
- Enhance the flavor of the shrimp by marinating them in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and your preferred herbs and spices before sauteing.
In conclusion, Southern Shrimp & Grits is a timeless and beloved dish that exudes the soul-warming essence of Southern comfort food. This classic combination, as shared by Melissa Hass from Gilbert, South Carolina, brings together fresh shrimp, a vibrant medley of peppers and onions, and velvety cheese grits. The result is a hearty and satisfying dinner that perfectly embodies the flavors of the South.
The recipe is simple yet delicious, with quick-cooking grits prepared in flavorful chicken broth and combined with shredded sharp cheddar cheese and sour cream for a creamy and indulgent texture. Meanwhile, the shrimp is sauteed to perfection with onions, pepper strips, parsley, and lemon juice, imparting a burst of fresh and vibrant flavors.
Southern Shrimp & Grits is a versatile dish that can be served for dinner or even as a delightful breakfast option during shrimping season in the Charleston area of South Carolina. The popularity of this dish has even spread beyond the region, thanks to a 1985 article by Craig Claiborne in The New York Times.
Enhance the meal by serving it alongside classic Southern sides like cornbread and sliced tomatoes, adding a touch of Southern flair to the dining experience. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider spicing up the shrimp mixture with Cajun seasoning or your preferred blend of spices.
So, whether you’re a lover of Southern cuisine or simply seeking a comforting and delicious meal, Southern Shrimp & Grits is sure to please. Gather your ingredients and savor the rich and satisfying flavors of this quintessential Southern favorite.
