Jazzy Shrimp And Grits

• McCormick® Jazzy Spice Blend1 tablespoon
• kosher salt1 teaspoon
• freshly ground black pepper½ teaspoon
• raw shrimp1 pound
• water4 cup
• stone ground corn grits1 cup
• shredded white cheddar1 cup
• unsalted butter1 tablespoon
• kosher salt1 teaspoon
• pepper½ teaspoon
• bacon4 strip
• garlic3 clove
• dry white wine¼ cup
• chicken stock¼ cup
• fresh chives2 tablespoon

Instructions

1. 1

   Make the shrimp: In a medium bowl, mix together the Jazzy Spice Blend, salt, and pepper.

2. 2

   Add the shrimp and toss to coat thoroughly.

3. 3

   Cover with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for 1 hour.

4. 4

   Make the grits: In a large saucepan over high heat, bring the water or stock to a boil.

5. 5

   Once boiling, whisk in the grits.

6. 6

   Reduce the heat to low and simmer, whisking often, until the grits begin to thicken.

7. 7

   If the grits are bubbling and spurting too much, cover the pot partially with a lid, but make sure not to cover fully.

8. 8

   Continue whisking frequently until the grits are tender, about 1 hour.

9. 9

   If the grits get too thick before they are fully cooked, add ¼ cup cooking liquid at a time.

10. 10

    Once cooked, stir in the cheddar cheese, butter, salt, and pepper.

11. 11

    Keep warm before serving.

12. 12

    While the grits are cooking, place the bacon strips in a cold medium skillet.

13. 13

    Turn the heat to medium-low and cook the bacon until crispy, 2-3 minutes per side.

14. 14

    Remove the bacon from the pan, leaving the bacon fat behind, and drain on paper towels.

15. 15

    Once the bacon is cool, chop and reserve.

16. 16

    Add the garlic to the bacon fat in the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes over medium low heat until fragrant.

17. 17

    Add the shrimp, white wine, and chicken stock to pan.

18. 18

    Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, then remove from the pan.

19. 19

    Return chopped bacon to pan and cook for about a minute, until the liquid in the pan reduces slightly to make a sauce.

20. 20

    Spoon the grits into bowls and top with the shrimp.

21. 21

    Spoon the bacon sauce over the shrimp and garnish with chives.

22. 22

    Enjoy!