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Jerk Shrimp & Cheesy Grits with Gouda

Jerk Shrimp & Cheesy Grits with Gouda
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Jerk Shrimp & Cheesy Grits with Gouda is a flavorful, vibrant dish combining spicy jerk-seasoned shrimp with creamy, smoky Gouda-infused stone-ground grits. Perfect for brunch, dinner, or any hearty meal, this recipe offers a bold twist on Southern comfort food that’s quick to prepare and visually stunning.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasoning

  • 1 lb fresh or frozen peeled shrimp (thawed if frozen)
  • 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (blend of allspice, thyme, scotch bonnet peppers)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed

Grits

  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 cup shredded Gouda cheese

Garnish

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
  • Lime wedges (optional)

Additional Ingredients

  • 1–2 tbsp cooking oil (for sautéing shrimp)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Grits: Bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a boil in a saucepan. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of stone-ground grits to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, until grits thicken and become tender, about 20 minutes.
  2. Season and Cook the Shrimp: Toss peeled shrimp with 2 tablespoons of jerk seasoning. In a skillet over medium heat, add 1-2 tablespoons of oil and sauté minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
  3. Incorporate Cheese and Butter into the Grits: Once grits are creamy and tender, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of shredded Gouda cheese until melted and smooth, adding a smoky, rich depth to the dish.
  4. Finish with Fresh Lime and Herbs: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the cooked shrimp for brightness. Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley over the entire dish for freshness and color.
  5. Plate and Serve: Spoon the cheesy grits onto plates, top with spicy jerk shrimp, and garnish with additional herbs or lime wedges for a visually appealing presentation.

Notes

  • Use the freshest shrimp possible for better texture and flavor.
  • Stir grits frequently while cooking to avoid clumping or sticking.
  • Toast spices lightly before use to enhance their aroma.
  • Shred Gouda cheese yourself for optimal melt and flavor.
  • Avoid overcooking shrimp by removing them promptly once pink and opaque.
  • To reduce spice, substitute scotch bonnet peppers in jerk seasoning with mild paprika.
  • For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of chicken broth and omit the cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: Jerk shrimp, cheesy grits, gouda, spicy seafood, Southern comfort food, Caribbean flavors, brunch recipe, gluten free

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/jerk-shrimp-cheesy-grits-with-gouda-3/