Shrimp And Grits

Ingredients

4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter
2 teaspoons salt
2 cups quick grits
1/4 cup chopped applewood smoked bacon
1/2 cup diced onion
2 tablespoons each, diced red and green bell peppers
1/4 diced leek
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
36 medium shrimp, peeled, tails removed, and deveined
3/4 cup flour
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 quart heavy (whipping) cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon Tabasco

Directions

In a medium saucepan on medium-high heat, bring 6 cups water, the butter, and salt to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits. Continue whisking occasionally for about 5 minutes, until the grits are thick and tender. Remove from the heat and keep warm.

TO MAKE THE SHRIMP GRAVY

Saute the bacon in a large heavy saucepan over medium-high heat until the fat is rendered.

Stir in the onion, peppers, leek, and garlic and cook until soft. Add the shrimp and stir to combine. Sprinkle in the flour, and stir, making sure all of the flour is well incorporated. Add the wine and cream, stirring well until the sauce has thickened.

In a small bottle or bowl, mix the salt, pepper, and garlic powder and season the gravy to taste.

Serve the shrimp gravy over grits.

TIP: For creamier grits, add a small amount of heavy cream.

Makes 4-6 servings