RestaurantsProhibition KitchenShrimp & Grits Recipe

Shrimp & Grits Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

Make Shrimp & Grits Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Shrimp

Method

Grits

1

Boil liquids

In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring 4 cups water and 1 cup whole milk to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Add 1 teaspoon salt.

2

Add grits

Slowly whisk in 1 cup stone-ground grits to the simmering liquid to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low so the mixture gently bubbles.

3

Simmer and stir

Simmer uncovered, stirring frequently (every 2–3 minutes) so grits don't stick, until thick and tender, about 20–25 minutes for stone-ground. If they thicken too quickly, add up to 1/2 cup extra water or milk to reach desired texture.

4

Finish with butter and cheese

Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and 1 cup grated sharp cheddar until melted and smooth. Season with 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Taste and adjust salt if needed. Keep covered and warm while preparing shrimp.

Shrimp

5

Prep shrimp

Pat 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels. Season lightly with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; toss to coat evenly.

6

Cook aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter until foaming. Add 1 small finely chopped shallot and sauté 2–3 minutes until softened, then add 3 cloves minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.

7

Cook shrimp

Increase heat to medium-high. Add seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook 1.5–2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Remove shrimp to a plate and set aside.

8

Create pan sauce

Keep skillet over medium heat. Pour in 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer and reduce slightly, about 2–3 minutes.

9

Finish sauce and combine

Return shrimp to the skillet, toss to coat in the sauce, and stir in 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley. Simmer 30 seconds just to rewarm shrimp and marry flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with up to 1/2 teaspoon additional salt and pepper if needed.

Plating & garnish

10

Spoon a generous portion of cheesy grits into shallow bowls. Top with shrimp and pour a little pan sauce over each serving.

11

Garnish with optional chopped crispy bacon, 2 tablespoons sliced scallions, additional parsley, and a dash of hot sauce to taste.

12

Serve immediately.