Southern Shrimp and Cheesy Grits

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, bring the stock to a boil.

Step 2

Whisk in the grits and cook over moderately high heat, stirring vigorously at first to eliminate lumps (Continue to stir periodically until thickened and the grains are tender- about 4 - 5 minutes total. If using regular grits, they will take up to 45 minutes)

Step 3

Add the cream, butter and cheese and gently stir. Cover and remove from heat.

Step 4

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until crispy.

Step 5

Transfer cooked bacon to paper towel-lined plate.

Step 6

Pour out all but about 4 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet and re-heat.

Step 7

Sprinkle black pepper all over the shrimp and then add to the hot skillet and cook until curled and pink, about 3 minutes.

Step 8

Stir in the garlic, parsley, scallions, paprika, Worcestershire, Tabasco and lemon juice.

Step 9

Meanwhile, crumble the bacon into slightly smaller pieces, set aside.

Step 10

Spoon the warm, cheesy grits into 4 shallow serving bowls and top each with a quarter of the shrimp mixture.

Step 11

Garnish with bacon and reserved scallions.  Serve at once!