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Shrimp and Grits

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description Shrimp and Grits Overview

Shrimp and grits is a dish associated with the Lowcountry and coastal Southern cooking of the United States. It pairs shrimp with grits, a porridge made from ground corn, and may include ingredients such as bacon, sausage, onions, garlic, stock, or a savory sauce. Earlier versions were connected with the seasonal availability of shrimp and were sometimes served as a simple breakfast, while later preparations appear in restaurants and home kitchens.

help Shrimp and Grits FAQ

Where did shrimp and grits originate?

The dish comes from the South Carolina Lowcountry and neighboring coastal communities. It began as a simple breakfast combining local shrimp with grits before becoming a restaurant dish served at lunch and dinner. [Source](https://discoversouthcarolina.com/articles/seeking-shrimp-and-grits)

What are grits in shrimp and grits?

Grits are ground corn cooked into a soft porridge, often made creamy with butter, milk, or cheese. In the classic Lowcountry pairing, the grits provide the warm corn base for sautéed or fried shrimp. [Source](https://www.scencyclopedia.org/sce/entries/grits/)

Was shrimp and grits originally a fisherman's breakfast?

Yes. Coastal workers could combine fresh shrimp with a filling corn-based breakfast, which is why the dish was historically associated with fishermen and the Lowcountry morning meal. By the 1980s, chefs such as Bill Neal helped popularize it as a dinner entrée. [Source](https://www.museumofthenewsouth.org/southern-tables/shrimp-and-grits/)

What ingredients are commonly added to shrimp and grits?

A South Carolina version often includes stone-ground grits, shrimp, bacon, onion, garlic, and a savory pan sauce. Modern restaurant versions may add cheddar, scallions, okra, chorizo, or white wine while keeping the shrimp and cornmeal base. [Source](https://discoversouthcarolina.com/articles/seeking-shrimp-and-grits)

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