Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Grits:
1 cup stone-ground grits
4 cups water or chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Red Snapper and Shrimp:
2 red snapper fillets
1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
For the Cajun Cream Sauce:
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp flour
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
Prepare the Grits:
In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the grits are tender and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.
Cook the Red Snapper and Shrimp:
Season the red snapper fillets and shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the red snapper fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Cajun Cream Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the roux is lightly browned.
Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Add the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the chopped green onions and parsley.
Assemble and Serve:
Divide the creamy grits among serving plates. Top with a red snapper fillet and a few shrimp.
Spoon the Cajun cream sauce over the fish and shrimp. Garnish with additional chopped green onions and parsley if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with Cajun Cream Sauce!
