Shrimp and Cheese Grits

FOR THE SHRIMP MIXTURE

• Fry 3 slices of bacon over medium heat until crisp, reserve bacon.


• Drain all but 3 tbs. of bacon fat.


• Increase heat to med-high, To the bacon fat, add 3 tbs. of flour. Stir constantly until you have a medium/dark roux (the color of milk chocolate)


• To the roux, add 1/2 cup sliced mushroom, 1/4 cup sliced green onion, 2 cloves minced garlic, thinly sliced sun dried tomatoes, salt to taste and fresh ground black pepper. Stir to evenly coat vegetables with the roux. Cook 6-8 minutes.


• Reduce heat to medium and add 1 cup cooked shrimp (cleaned and deveined). Stir mixture. Cook 3-4 minutes, or until shrimp begins to brown.


• Thoroughly stir in 1 cup of good quality chicken stock. Reduce heat to low and allow to simmer while you make the cheese grits. The roux should thicken the mixture.


• Just before serving over cheese grits, squeeze the juice of 1/2 small lemon into shrimp mixture. Garnish with the reserved crumbled bacon and additional green onion.

FOR THE CHEESE GRITS

• Bring to a boil 1 cup chicken broth, 1 cup milk and 1 1/2 cups water.


• While constantly stirring, add 3/4 cup old fashioned grits.


• Reduce heat to low, cover and let simmer for 10-12 minutes or until grits are thickened.


• Stir in 1 tbs. butter and 1/4 cup manchego cheese.