Cajun Shrimp and Grits

and Grits Here’s that combines creamy, cheesy grits with spicy shrimp for a satisfying meal.

Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Ingredients:

For the Grits:

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 3 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional for creamier grits)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cajun Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ cup diced andouille sausage (optional for extra flavor)
• ½ cup diced green bell pepper
• ½ cup diced onion
• ¼ cup diced green onions (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

For the Grits:

1. Cook the grits: Bring 4 cups of water (or chicken broth) to a boil in a large pot. Slowly whisk in the grits, then reduce the heat to low.
2. Simmer: Cover and cook the grits, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re thick and creamy. Add more water or broth if needed to reach the desired consistency.
3. Add butter and cheese: Stir in butter, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm while preparing the shrimp.

For the Cajun Shrimp:

1. Season the shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
2. Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the garlic, onion, bell pepper, and andouille sausage (if using). Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the sausage is browned.
4. Finish the shrimp: Return the shrimp to the skillet, add the lemon juice, and stir everything together. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors.

To Serve:

1. Plate the grits: Spoon a generous portion of the cheesy grits onto a plate or shallow bowl.
2. Top with shrimp: Place the cooked Cajun shrimp and sautéed vegetables on top of the grits.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
4. Serve immediately: Enjoy your Cajun Shrimp and Grits with a lemon wedge on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Recipe Notes:

• Cajun seasoning: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning depending on your preferred level of spice. You can also make your own Cajun blend using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano.
• Grits consistency: If your grits are too thick, you can loosen them with a little more water, milk, or broth. For thicker grits, reduce the liquid slightly.
• Andouille sausage: This is optional but adds a smoky, spicy depth of flavor to the dish.
• Make it your own: Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes to the shrimp mixture for additional vegetables.

Time and Temperature:

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Enjoy this classic Southern dish of Cajun Shrimp and Grits, a perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors!