Girlfriends in the Kitchen - Shrimp & Grits

Shrimp & Grits adapted from the Hominy Grill in Charleston, SC.

Ingredients

2 pounds unpeeled, medium-size raw shrimp (31/40 count)

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

5 bacon slices, chopped

1 (8-oz.) package sliced fresh mushrooms

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice 

1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions

2 teaspoons hot sauce

1/2 teaspoon salt

Creamy Cheddar Cheese Grits (see below)

1. Peel shrimp; devein, if desired. Toss shrimp with flour until lightly coated, shaking to remove excess.

2. Cook bacon in a medium skillet over medium-high heat 8 to 10 minutes or until crisp. Remove bacon, and drain on paper towels, reserving drippings in skillet.

3. Sauté mushrooms in hot drippings 4 minutes or just until mushrooms begin to release their liquid. Add shrimp, and sauté 3 to 3 1/2 minutes or just until shrimp turn pink. Add garlic, and sauté 1 minute (do not brown garlic). Add lemon juice and next 3 ingredients.  Pour over grits. Sprinkle with bacon.

Creamy Cheddar Grits

Ingredients
4 tablespoons butter
2 cups milk
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
2 teaspoons salt
2 cups uncooked white grits
1 (10-oz.) block Cheddar cheese, shredded

1. Bring 2 Tbsp. butter, next 3 ingredients to a boil in a medium-size Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Gradually whisk in grits, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer, stirring occasionally until thickened. Stir in cheese and remaining 2 Tbsp. butter until melted. Serve immediately.

** We prepared our dishes ahead of time in a casserole dish.  If you choose to do this, cover & bake at 350 F for 30-45 minutes.