Shrimp & Grits

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup water

1 cup milk

1/2 cup quick grits

3 tablespoons butter

5 ounces smoked cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)

paprika, to taste

2 tablespoons heavy cream

1/2 yellow onion, diced

1/2 red bell pepper, diced

1/4 cup green onion, chopped

7 cloves garlic, finely minced

3 strips bacon, chopped

1 stick butter

1/2 pound shrimp, peeled & deveined

2 tablespoons hot sauce

1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 cup veggie broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

cayenne pepper, to taste

onion powder, to taste

cajun seasoning, to taste

fresh parsley, chopped

DIRECTIONS:

1. In a bowl, season the shrimp with cajun seasoning and hot sauce. In a pot, fry down the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels. In the bacon grease, cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side.

2. Remove the shrimp and melt the butter. Sauté the onions and pepper on medium heat for 25 minutes. Add in the garlic and sauté for 3 minutes.

3. Whisk in the cornstarch, veg broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer until it thickens, about 3 minutes.

4. Season to taste with cajun seasoning, cayenne, and onion powder. Add back in the shrimp and set aside.

TO MAKE THE GRITS:

1. In a pot, bring the water, milk and butter to a boil. Stir in the grits, cover, and let cook on low until thick (about 5 minutes)

2. Remove from the heat, stir in the cheese, paprika, and heavy cream.

TO SERVE:

Place the grits in a bowl, top with the shrimp & sauce, the bacon, and some fresh parsley!