Certainly! A Southerner’s specialty often refers to dishes that are popular and traditional in the Southern United States. One such recipe is “Shrimp and Grits.” This dish has a rich history and is known for its comforting flavors. Here’s the information you asked for:
Recipe: Shrimp and Grits
History:
Shrimp and Grits has its origins in the Southern states, particularly in the Lowcountry regions of South Carolina and Georgia. It was originally a humble dish enjoyed by fishermen and laborers. Over time, it evolved into a beloved Southern comfort food and gained popularity across the country.
Recipe Ingredients:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Recipe Instructions:
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In a medium saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce the heat to low. Cook the grits, stirring occasionally, until they are creamy and tender, about 20-25 minutes.
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Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, heavy cream, salt, and pepper into the cooked grits. Keep warm.
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In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pan.
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In the same skillet, sautรฉ the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic until they are tender and aromatic.
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Add the diced tomatoes and cook for a few minutes until they are slightly softened.
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Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet.
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In the same skillet, melt the butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for a couple of minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
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Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and lemon juice, cooking until the sauce thickens.
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Return the cooked shrimp and crispy bacon to the skillet. Stir to coat them with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
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Serve the creamy cheese grits in individual bowls and top with the shrimp and sauce mixture. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Preparation Time:
The total time to prepare Shrimp and Grits is approximately 45-50 minutes.
Enjoy this classic Southern dish that brings together the flavors of tender shrimp, creamy grits, and a savory sauce for a truly satisfying meal!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for the dish “Shrimp and Grits”:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500 kcal
- Protein: About 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Around 30-35g
- Dietary Fiber: Roughly 2-3g
- Sugars: About 2-3g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Saturated Fat: Around 10-12g
- Cholesterol: Roughly 150-180mg
- Sodium: Approximately 800-1000mg
Health Information:
- Protein: Shrimp is a good source of lean protein, which is important for muscle repair and overall growth.
- Carbohydrates: Grits provide carbohydrates, which are a source of energy for the body.
- Dietary Fiber: The dish contains a moderate amount of dietary fiber from the grits and vegetables, which supports digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness.
- Fats: While the dish does contain fats, some of which are from the shrimp and cheese, it’s important to note that these fats can provide flavor and satiety.
- Cholesterol: Shrimp does contain cholesterol, but dietary cholesterol’s impact on blood cholesterol levels is now understood to be less significant than previously thought. Moderation is key.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The dish may contain various vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C from vegetables and calcium from cheese, contributing to overall nutrition.
- Sodium: The sodium content is relatively high due to ingredients like bacon and cheese. Watching sodium intake can be important for heart health.
Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on factors like portion size and specific ingredients used. If you have specific dietary concerns or health goals, it’s a good idea to consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized advice.
