Creole Shrimp and Grits

Submitted by KathyP53

"Lowcountry stable!"

 

• Ready In: 2hrs
• Ingredients: 15
• Serves: 6-8

ingredients

• 2 lbs unpeeled medium raw shrimp (26-30 count)
• 1⁄4 cup vegetable oil
• 1⁄3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery ribs, finely chopped
• 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons creole seasoning
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1⁄2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 1⁄2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1⁄2 cups uncooked quick-cooking grits

directions

1. Peel shrimp, reserving shells; devein shrimp, if desired. Bring shells and 4 cups of water to boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat; reduce heat to low, and cook 20 minutes. Pour shrimp broth through a colander over a large bowl, pressing shells with back of a spoon; discard shells.
2. Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat; stir in flour, and cook, stirring constantly until flour is caramel colored, about 8-10 minutes. Add onion and next three ingredients, and cook, stirring often, 5-7 minutes or until tender. Stir in 2 cups shrimp broth, tomato paste, and next 4 ingredients. Reduce heat to low, and cook, stirring occasionally, 45 minutes. Add shrimp and cook 10 minutes, stirring in 1/4 to 1/2 cup remaining shrimp broth to reach desired consistency.
3. Meanwhile, bring milk, 2 1/2 cups water, and salt to boil in a saucepan over high heat. Gradually stir in grits. Reduce heat to low, and simmer, stirring occasionally, 10-12 minutes or until thickened. Serve Creole Shrimp over grits.