Craving a taste of the Big Easy? Then look no further! This Emeril's Nola Shrimp and Grits recipe brings the vibrant flavors of New Orleans right to your kitchen. This dish is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner. Get ready for a culinary journey filled with creamy grits, succulent shrimp, and a burst of savory spices – a true celebration of Southern comfort food. This recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes you can easily make at home. It's one of the best recipes for a reason!
Ingredients:
For the Grits:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped Andouille sausage (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Making the Grits:
- Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Slowly whisk in the grits, reducing the heat to low.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are creamy and tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.
Cooking the Shrimp:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and green bell pepper and sauté for 3-5 minutes, until softened. If using, add the Andouille sausage and cook for another 2-3 minutes until browned.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
Assembling the Dish:
- Spoon the creamy grits onto plates.
- Top with the shrimp and sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy this healthy meal!
Tips for Success:
- Use good quality stone-ground grits for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and opaque.
- For a spicier dish, add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as diced tomatoes or mushrooms, to the shrimp sauce. This is one of those easy recipes that allows for great customization!
Variations:
- Spicy Shrimp and Grits: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the shrimp sauce for extra heat.
- Cheesy Shrimp and Grits: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese to the grits for extra cheesy goodness.
- Vegetarian Grits: Omit the shrimp and sausage and add roasted vegetables like butternut squash or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick dinner idea or a special occasion. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – delicious, satisfying, and relatively quick to prepare. Enjoy this taste of New Orleans!