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Old Charleston-Style Shrimp and Grits Recipe
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Old Charleston-Style Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Old Charleston-Style Shrimp and Grits Recipe takes this dish to a whole new level with rich flavors, bold spices, and juicy shrimp.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Southern American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Shrimp = 01 lb large peeled and deveined
  • Butter = 02 tablespoons
  • Olive Oil = 01 tablespoon
  • Garlic = 03 cloves minced
  • Onion = 01 small finely chopped
  • Cajun Seasoning = 1/2 teaspoon
  • Paprika = 1/4 teaspoon
  • Cayenne Pepper = 1/4 teaspoon for heat (Optional)
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • White Wine = 1/2 cup or chicken broth as substitute
  • Heavy Cream = 1/2 cup
  • Fresh Parsley = 01 tablespoon chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon Juice = 01 tablespoon for a fresh touch (Optional)
For the Grits
  • Stone-Ground Grits = 01 cup
  • Water = 04 cups or chicken broth for more flavor
  • Whole Milk = 01 cup
  • Butter = 01 tablespoon
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese = 1/2 cup but recommended (Optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Sauté Pan (for cooking shrimp and sauce)
  • Medium Saucepan (for cooking grits)
  • Wooden Spoon (for stirring)
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Whisk (for stirring grits)
  • Knife and Cutting Board (for chopping ingredients)

Method
 

  1. Step by Step Instructions:
Step 01: Prepare the Grits
  1. Bring 4 cups of water (or broth) to a boil.
  2. Gradually whisk in grits, ensuring no lumps form.
  3. Reduce heat to low, simmer for 20-25 minutes.
  4. Stir occasionally until grits are soft and creamy.
  5. Add milk, butter, and cheese (optional). Stir until smooth.
  6. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 02: Cook the Shrimp
  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet.
  2. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side.
  3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
Step 03: Make the Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion and garlic.
  2. Cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
  3. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
  4. Pour in white wine (or broth) and simmer for 4-5 minutes.
  5. Add heavy cream and stir until the sauce thickens.
  6. Return shrimp to the skillet and coat with sauce.
  7. Simmer for 2-3 more minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 04: Serve the Dish
  1. Spoon creamy grits onto plates or bowls.
  2. Top with shrimp and sauce.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon juice (optional).
Servings and Preparation Time
  1. Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  2. Cook Time: 30 minutes
  3. Total Time: 40 minutes
  4. Servings: 4

Notes

  • Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh, high-quality shrimp make a big difference in this dish. Look for shrimp that are firm, pink, and smell like the ocean.
  • Cook the Grits Slowly: To get the perfect creamy texture, cook the grits slowly over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent lumps.
  • Add Cheese: Some versions of shrimp and grits include cheese, like cheddar or Parmesan, for extra richness. Feel free to add some to the grits for added flavor.
  • Customize the Sauce: You can adjust the sauce to your liking. Add a splash of white wine or use chicken broth instead of water for extra depth of flavor.
  • Spice It Up: Add a little cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you like some heat in your dish.