Continued with my recent visit to New Orleans, I was on a mission to soak up the vibrant culture and indulge in the city’s legendary cuisine. In the heart of the French Quarter, I found myself at Oceana Grill, a charming restaurant praised for its delicious food and warm, welcoming atmosphere. From rave reviews to personal recommendations, Oceana Grill did not disappoint. One dish, in particular, stole my heart: the BBQ Shrimp and Grits! While my mind was still partially with the delicious Homemade Willie Mae’s Southern Fried Chicken.
My Experience at Oceana Grill
Upon entering Oceana Grill, I was immediately greeted by the tantalizing aroma of spices and seafood. The ambiance was alive with the chatter of happy diners and the clinking of glasses. Our server, Logan, was a standout – attentive, friendly, and full of energy. He recommended the BBQ Shrimp and Grits, a dish that lived up to every bit of its high praise.
Tasting Heaven on a Plate
When my plate arrived, the enticing sight of perfectly cooked shrimp nestled atop a bed of creamy grits made my mouth water. The shrimp were large, succulent, and generously coated in a rich Creole barbecue sauce. Each bite was a symphony of flavors – robust, tangy, and utterly decadent. The grits were velvety smooth, enhanced by the addition of butter and mascarpone cheese, making each spoonful comforting and satisfying.
Bringing the Magic Home – Homemade Oceana Grill’s BBQ Shrimp and Grits
Inspired by my unforgettable meal at Oceana Grill, I decided to recreate this dish at home. Below is my take on BBQ Shrimp and Grits, an homage to the flavors and culinary craftsmanship of New Orleans.
Why You Will Love this Homemade BBQ Shrimp and Grits
- Protein-Packed: Shrimp provides a high amount of lean protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall health.
- Nutrient-Rich: This dish offers a range of vitamins and minerals including vitamin D, B12, selenium, and iron.
- Healthy Fats: The olive oil and butter used in this recipe introduce healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health and overall satiety.
Chef’s Notes
- Quality Ingredients: Use the freshest shrimp available, and opt for stone-ground grits to achieve the best texture and flavor. The quality of your ingredients will make all the difference.
- Balanced Flavor in the Sauce: Take your time with the sauce, allowing the shrimp heads and shells to impart their essence. This step is crucial for depth of flavor.
- Creamy Grits: Incorporate butter and mascarpone cheese into your grits for that luxurious, creamy consistency that pairs perfectly with the sauce and shrimp.
- Serve Immediately: For the best dining experience, serve the dish as soon as it’s prepared, ensuring the grits are warm and the shrimp retain their tenderness.
Creole Shrimp and Creamy Grits
Dive into the flavors of New Orleans with this Creole Shrimp and Creamy Grits recipe! Perfect for brunch or a special dinner, this dish combines succulent shrimp with rich, creamy grits. It’s a delightful blend of spices and textures that will transport your taste buds straight to the French Quarter. Gather your friends, mix up some mimosas, and enjoy a taste of the Big Easy at home!
4
servings30
minutes45
minutes650
kcal1
hour15
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Grits
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 cup stone-ground white grits
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- Sauce Base
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 cups shrimp shells and heads
1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons freshly cracked black pepper
2 tablespoons Creole seasoning blend
1/2 teaspoon whole cloves
2 bay leaves bay leaves
1 fresh lemon Juice of 1 fresh lemon
- Shrimp
2 pounds medium-sized wild-caught shrimp, peeled and deveined
Pinch sea salt
Generous amount cracked black pepper
1 cup prepared sauce base (from above)
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup unsalted butter
- Alternative Ingredients
Grits: Polenta or cornmeal can be used as a substitute.
Mascarpone Cheese: Cream cheese or ricotta can be used instead.
Worcestershire Sauce: Soy sauce with a splash of vinegar can be an alternative.
Creole Seasoning: Cajun seasoning can be used as a substitute.
Heavy Cream: Half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Directions
- Preparing the Grits – In a medium saucepan over high heat, bring 4 cups of water and sea salt to a boil. Gradually whisk in the stone-ground grits to avoid lumps. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once the water is absorbed and the grits are tender, stir in the unsalted butter and mascarpone cheese until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent a crust from forming.
- Making the Sauce Base – Heat extra virgin olive oil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Add the shrimp shells and heads; sauté for about 5 minutes until fragrant. Pour in Worcestershire sauce, cracked black pepper, Creole seasoning blend, whole cloves, bay leaves, lemon juice, and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium and simmer until reduced by half. Strain the mixture and set aside the sauce base.
- Cooking the Shrimp – Season the peeled and deveined shrimp with a pinch of sea salt and plenty of cracked black pepper. In a large cast-iron skillet over high heat, combine the shrimp with the prepared sauce base, heavy whipping cream, and unsalted butter. Bring to a boil and cook for about 5 minutes until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and arrange them on a serving platter or individual bowls.
- Finishing Touches – Continue to simmer the sauce in the skillet until it reduces by half and reaches a rich mocha color. Pour the reduced sauce over the cooked shrimp. Serve immediately with creamy grits and a side of French bread.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- cast iron skillet
- Nonstick Pan
- Mixing Bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 650kcal
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Cholesterol: 300mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Potassium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Vitamin A: 1500IU
- Vitamin C: 20mg
- Calcium: 150mg
- Iron: 4mg
FAQ – Oceana Grill’s BBQ Shrimp and Grits
What Drink Pairs With Shrimp and Grits?
A zesty white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, crisp beer such as a Pilsner pairs well with shrimp and grits. The acidity of these beverages complements the rich flavors of the dish.
What Side Dish Goes With Shrimp and Grits?
A side of collard greens, sautéed spinach, or a fresh mixed green salad are excellent companions to shrimp and grits. They add a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the grits.
Why Is New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Called BBQ?
Despite its name, New Orleans BBQ shrimp isn’t barbecued in the traditional sense. The dish gets its name from the rich, buttery, and spicy sauce in which the shrimp are cooked, reminiscent of barbecue flavors.
What Vegetables Go With Fish and Grits?
Roasted asparagus, grilled bell peppers, or a medley of sautéed leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard work wonderfully with fish and grits, adding both color and nutrients to the meal.
Can I Use Instant Grits Instead of Stone-Ground Grits?
While instant grits can save time, stone-ground grits are recommended for their superior texture and flavor. They provide a more authentic and satisfying experience.
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Stay Tender?
To keep shrimp tender, avoid overcooking them. Shrimp generally cook quickly, in about 3-4 minutes. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Are There Vegetarian Variants of This Dish?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by using a combination of roasted vegetables and mushrooms in place of shrimp, and a vegetable broth-based sauce to retain the flavors.
What Is a Good Substitute for Mascarpone Cheese?
Cream cheese or ricotta can be used as substitutes for mascarpone cheese in grits. Both provide a similar creamy richness.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level in This Dish?
To adjust the spice level, you can modify the amount of cracked black pepper and Creole spices in the sauce. For a milder taste, reduce these spices, or add more for a spicier kick.
More Homemade Dishes from Top New Orleans Restaurants
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Homemade Shrimp Gumbo with Okra
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Rabbit & Sausage Jambalaya
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Homemade Willie Mae’s Southern Fried Chicken
Cooks in 290 minutesDifficulty: MediumDive into the culinary heritage of the South with our Southern-Style Cola Marinated Fried Chicken. This recipe offers a unique blend of sweetness from cola and a spicy kick from cayenne, creating a mouthwatering contrast that’s hard to resist. Inspired by traditional recipes, this dish is a tribute to legendary Southern chefs and their timeless cooking techniques. Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, it’s sure to leave everyone craving for more!
