Easy Fajita Style Shrimp and Grits
As cultures collide, so do flavors, giving rise to creative culinary inventions. The incorporation of fajita seasoning into this classic shrimp and grits dish, not only enhances its flavor profile, but also reflects the vibrant essence of Tex-Mex cuisine. This delightful twist elevates a simple meal into an extraordinary culinary adventure, drawing on the collective memories of family dinners and festive gatherings. As we prepare to enjoy this incredible dish, we embrace the warm spirit of sharing meals that nourish both the body and the soul.
Step by Step Cooking Guide
Creating a homemade fajita seasoning blend is crucial for enhancing the flavor of the shrimp, in this delightful take on traditional shrimp and grits. Essential ingredients typically include chili powder, cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Once the seasoning is ready, proceed to marinate the shrimp. Ensure shrimp is peeled and deveined. In a bowl, combine the shrimp with a tablespoon of homemade fajita seasoning, ensuring each piece is well coated. For optimal flavor absorption, let the shrimp marinate for at least 30 minutes.
In crafting a delightful fajita style shrimp and grits dish, the preparation of fresh vegetables, particularly vibrant bell peppers and onions, is essential. Using fresh and colorful produce not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes to the overall flavor profile.
For the bell peppers, slice off the top and bottom, then cut them open to remove the seeds and membranes. From there, cut the peppers into thin strips.
Next, prepare the onions by removing the skin and cut the onions in half. For uniform cooking, slice the onion into half-rings.
Once peppers and onions are sliced, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Introduce the prepared vegetables to the hot skillet. Allowing them to cook undisturbed for a few minutes will prompt charring. Then stir gently to ensure even cooking. The goal is to achieve a tender texture while allowing them to develop a slight char which brings out deeper flavors.
Once the oil is shimmering, but not smoking, carefully add the shrimp in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; doing so can lower the oil temperature and result in steaming rather than frying, which distracts from achieving the perfect sear. Cook the shrimp for about two minutes on one side before gently turning them over. It is crucial to monitor the cooking time closely as shrimp can cook quickly, and become rubbery if overcooked.
For a fantastic sear, allow the shrimp to sit undisturbed for the initial minutes. This helps to form a golden brown crust which not only enhances texture, but also adds to the visual appeal. It is imperative to remove them from the heat immediately as the residual heat will continue to cook the shrimp. Incorporate finishing touches, such as fresh lime, or chopped cilantro to complement your fajita style shrimp and grits, making a delightful centerpiece for any meal.
To create a delectable base for our fajita style shrimp and grits, it is essential to master the art of cooking creamy, cheesy grits. Combine water and milk for a delightful creaminess. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before gradually whisking in the old-fashioned grits, ensuring there are no lumps. Reducing the heat to low, allow the grits to simmer, stirring frequently. This slow cooking process is where the flavors develop, which is crucial for a satisfying dish.
Once the grits are cooked and have absorbed most of the liquid, stir in vegan butter and your preferred cheese, such as a low-fat Mexican cheese. The key is to melt the butter and cheese into the grits, thoroughly, creating a harmonious blend that permeates every bite. A touch of salt and pepper can enhance the profile, but be cautious as the cheese may contribute its own saltiness.
When it comes to plating, presentation is of utmost importance. Start by spooning a generous portion of the cheesy grits onto the plate, creating a soft bed for the seasoned shrimp and sautéed vegetables. Carefully layer with colorful peppers and onions, and the top it off with the shrimp. For a final touch, add garnishes such as wedges of fresh lime, and slices of charred jalapeño. Not only do these garnishes impart added flavor, but they also contribute vibrant colors to the dish, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Easy Fajita Style Shrimp and Grits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make fajita seasoning by combining 2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp Monkfruit sweetener, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder and mixing well.2 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp Monkfruit sweetener, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Peel and devein the shrimp.1 1/2 lb jumbo shrimp
- Toss 1 tbsp fajita seasoning with Shrimp and set aside.
- Remove the stem and seeds of bell peppers and thinly slice.2 red/yellow/orange bell peppers
- Peel away the onion skin and cut off the stem. Thinly slice the onion.1 medium onion
- Use a jalapeño corer to remove the seeds of jalapeño and thinly slice.1 jalapeño pepper
- Add 1/2 tbsp avocado oil in the large frying pan over medium high heat.2 tbsp avocado oil (divided)
- Lay peppers and onions flat in the frying pan and let it cook without disturbing for a few minutes to char the surface. Then stir and flip to continue to char. Monitor during the char process to ensure the vegetables are not burnt. Once the onions change to the darker color, add 1 tbsp fajita seasoning to the pan and toss to coat over the vegetables. Continue to cook until peppers and onions are tender. Add a little water if the vegetables are getting dried up.
- Transfer to a bowl.
- Using the same frying pan, add sliced jalapeño, stir constantly until jalapeño is charred.
- While pan frying the vegetables, add 1 cup of almond milk and 1/2 cup of water in a medium saucepan, bring it to a boil.1 cup unsweetened almond milk, 1/2 cup water
- Stir in grits.1/2 cup grits
- Reduce the heat to simmer the grits. Stir occasionally for about 25 minutes.
- Once the grits are cooked, incorporate 4 tbsp butter, 3/4 cup Mexican cheese in the grits.4 tbsp butter, 3/4 cup 2% milk Mexican cheese
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.Salt and Pepper
- Pan fry shrimp in batch by adding 1/2 tbsp avocado oil to the hot frying pan over medium hot heat, lay shrimp flat and let it fry for 2 minutes, flip and fry for another 2 minutes (see notes 2 and 3)
- Scoop grits on a plate as the base, top with peppers, onions and shrimp. Garnish with jalapeño and lime (optional)
Notes
- Pan fry shrimp last to ensure they stay hot and flavorful, but avoid saucing them during cooking to prevent an overpowering fishy taste.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan with shrimp, as they will steam in their own juices rather than char, resulting in a boiled texture and a fishier taste.
-
Reduce the second-side cook time if the first side is already well-done to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery. Perfectly cooked shrimp
should be pink, translucent, and tender, never rubbery.
