Tasso Ham and Shrimp Grits

Ingredients

• 6 oz Tasso ham, diced
• 1 lb Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup Stone-ground white grits
• 3 cups Chicken stock
• 1 cup Heavy cream
• 1 cup Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 tbsp Unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup Green bell pepper, finely diced
• 1/2 cup Yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/4 cup Green onions, sliced(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken stock and 1 cup of water to a boil, then slowly whisk in the grits and a pinch of salt.

2. 2

   Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer the grits for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until creamy and tender.

3. 3

   While grits cook, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the diced Tasso ham until browned and crispy.

4. 4

   Add the bell pepper and onion to the skillet with the ham, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.

5. 5

   Stir in the garlic and Cajun seasoning, then add the shrimp, cooking for 2-3 minutes until they just turn pink.

6. 6

   Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.

7. 7

   Whisk the remaining butter and the cheddar cheese into the cooked grits until fully melted and incorporated.

8. 8

   Spoon the cheesy grits into bowls and top generously with the Tasso shrimp mixture and sliced green onions.