Staycation Recap: Shrimp and Grits

A few weeks ago, my hubby and I embarked on our very own staycation. As obnoxious as I find the term to be, the actual at-home vacay turned out to be exactly what we needed. No, we didn't do the types of things you see on the Today Show ("Take pictures in front of a beach backdrop!" "Go snorkeling in your bathtub!"). We made it our own and decided to do our imaginary travelling with our palates. So, I devised a menu of indulgent, never-before-tried recipes and a few pounds heavier, I am here to tell you the delicious results.

Up first? Shrimp and Grits a la Bobby Flay.



I know that saying you "love bacon" is de rigueur nowadays, so I will spare you on my love of the uncured, applewood smoked variety. But, let me just say this: anything cooked in bacon fat will taste good. Anything. So, when you take briny shrimp, and stir it up in those tasty drippings, it's good. Ridiculously good.

As for the grits, I confess, I've always been a fan of the instant Quaker packets, which make a cold winter morning a lot more bearable. But, when you make them the old fashioned way and add cheese and butter to the mix, well, it's heaven.

By the way, this recipe makes a LOT of food and it's VERY rich. This is coming from someone whose appetite has been compared to that of a lumberjack on more than one occasion. So, pace yourself with the portions. I learned my lesson!