March 09, 2023

BBQ shrimp and grits is a popular dish in New Orleans due to a combination of factors including the abundance of fresh seafood in the region, the influence of Creole and Cajun cuisine, and the historical significance of grits in Southern cooking.

New Orleans is located near the Gulf of Mexico, which provides the city with an abundance of fresh seafood. Shrimp, in particular, is a staple of the local cuisine and is featured in many traditional New Orleans dishes. BBQ shrimp is a specific preparation method that involves marinating the shrimp in a spiced butter sauce and grilling them until they are tender and flavorful.

In addition to the seafood, New Orleans is known for its distinctive Creole and Cajun cuisine, which is a blend of French, African, and Native American culinary traditions. These cuisines often feature bold, spicy flavors and a variety of ingredients, including seafood, meats, and vegetables.

Grits, which are made from ground corn, have a long history in Southern cooking and are a staple of many regional dishes. They are often served as a savory breakfast food, but can also be used in other dishes such as shrimp and grits. Grits provide a creamy, comforting base for the dish and help to balance out the bold flavors of the BBQ shrimp.

Overall, the combination of fresh seafood, bold flavors, and traditional Southern ingredients make BBQ shrimp and grits a beloved dish in New Orleans.

BBQ Shrimp with Cheese Grits Recipe

Check out our BBQ Shrimp & Grits Class Pack for key ingredients and tools.

Servings: 2

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

Procedure

  1. Melt 2 Tbsp butter in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic, thyme, rosemary, oregano, and black pepper. Sauté until garlic is browned.
  2. Deglaze with beer, then add stock, Worcestershire, and Joe's Stuff. Bring to a hearty simmer.
  3. Add shrimp to pan, spreading evenly so as not to crowd them. Cook until the shrimp curl and turn white around the edges. Flip shrimp and allow to cook for another minute. Remove shrimp once cooked, and lay over a bowl of grits.
  4. Allow liquid to reduce until it is thick and coats the back of a spoon. Remove pan from heat. Add remaining butter and shake the pan to incorporate it. Once butter is melted, pour over shrimp and grits.



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