Bobby Flay's Shrimp and Cheesy Grits

Recently, while I was in South Carolina on a girlie friend trip, I discovered another wonder of the world.  Who thought "true luv" would involve "grits?" The only "grits" experience I have ever had was once, trying to impress college friends, one from the South, having grits on hand for breakfast.  The rest of the box sat, unused, unopened for several years until a move.  When I reached for the box of grits, it kind shook...then continued to shake after setting it down.  I gingerly carried it to the trash.  Outside.  The grits and critters. (you know how I exaggerate...maybe little teeny tiny critters....and maybe not shaking but trembling. Little buggies munching.) 

 

I have now forgotten that sad experience because one bite of THIS DISH was heavenly .....but like all truly great things, moderation is the key.  I ordered this dish (not Bobby Flay's recipe) as a main course and it was almost overpowering.  Too much goodness needs balance.  Serve it with a good green salad and crusty bread. (I haven't mastered the fine art of hush puppies...)  I've added some diced grape or cherry tomatoes to Bobby's recipe- it adds a little contrast and texture and the acidity is perfect.  This is a keeper!

 

Bobby Flay's Shrimp and Cheesy Grits

 

Ingredients

• 4 cups water
• Salt and pepper
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 4 teaspoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1 cup thinly sliced scallions
• 1 large clove garlic, minced
• 1/2-3/4 cup sliced grape or cherry tomatoes

Directions

Bring water to a boil. Add salt and pepper. Add grits and cook until water is absorbed, about 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in butter and cheese.

Rinse shrimp and pat dry. Fry the bacon in a large skillet until browned; drain well. In grease, add shrimp. Cook until shrimp turn pink. Add lemon juice, chopped bacon, parsley, scallions, tomatoes and garlic. Saute for 3 minutes.
Spoon grits into a serving bowl. Add shrimp mixture and mix well. Serve immediately.