This isn’t your usual grits recipe! With a tropical twist on a Southern classic, these Keto Shrimp & Coconut “Grits” make for a flavorful meal any time of day.
If You Want An Advance Level of Premium Keto Diet Recipes (100+ Healthy & Tasty) Then Join – Our 21-Days Keto Diet Challenge
Join The 21 Days Keto Diet Challenge for Weight Loss Here
The Story of Grits
Grits have been a Southern staple for centuries, dating back to pre-colonial America. Native Americans first enjoyed soft, boiled corn porridge, and this technique was later shared with settlers. Corn, or maize, was widely available, allowing grits to become a popular comfort food. Over time, coastal regions gave grits a new twist by adding shrimp, creating the classic shrimp-and-grits combo beloved today.
Grits vs. Polenta
While both are made from corn, they’re not the same. Grits are usually crafted from white corn, resulting in a finer texture, while polenta is made from yellow cornmeal, giving it a coarser consistency. For our keto-friendly twist, we’re swapping traditional corn grits for a creamy coconut porridge made with coconut cream and shredded coconut!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil, for cooking
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 10 white button mushrooms (100 g), quartered
- 1 green onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 lb (225 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) lemon juice
- 1 cup (240 ml) coconut cream
- 3/4 cup (60 g) shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Join The 21 Days Keto Diet Challenge for Weight Loss Here
Instructions
- In a pan, heat the olive oil and fry the diced bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.
- Add mushrooms and green onion to the pan, cooking until caramelized. Add garlic halfway through and cook until fragrant. Set aside and keep warm.
- In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then cook shrimp until pink. Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste, and set shrimp aside with the mushroom mixture.
- In a small saucepan, heat coconut cream, then stir in shredded coconut. Simmer to create a thick, porridge-like consistency.
- Spoon the coconut “grits” into four bowls. Top each with the shrimp mixture and crispy bacon bits, then garnish with parsley.
If You Want An Advance Level of Premium Keto Diet Recipes (100+ Healthy & Tasty) Then Join – Our 21-Days Keto Diet Challenge
Join The 21 Days Keto Diet Challenge for Weight Loss Here
FAQ
- Can I substitute coconut cream in this recipe?
Yes! If you don’t have coconut cream, you can use full-fat coconut milk. Just be sure to use the thick, creamy portion at the top of the can. Heavy cream could also work, but it will alter the tropical flavor slightly. - How can I make this dish spicier?
For an added kick, try adding diced jalapeño, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the shrimp. - Can I use a different protein instead of shrimp?
Absolutely! Scallops, chicken, or even diced sausage are great alternatives and can be cooked similarly to the shrimp. - How do I keep the “grits” creamy?
The coconut cream and shredded coconut create a creamy consistency, but you can adjust the texture by adding a bit more coconut cream or water if it becomes too thick. Stir frequently to maintain creaminess. - Can I prepare the “grits” in advance?
Yes, the coconut “grits” can be prepared ahead and reheated before serving. If they thicken in the fridge, just add a splash of coconut cream or water when reheating. - How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra coconut cream to maintain texture. - Can I skip the bacon?
Of course! You can omit bacon if preferred or substitute with turkey bacon or even diced pancetta for a different flavor profile. - Is this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this keto shrimp and “grits” recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it a great option for those with dairy sensitivities. - Can I use regular grits instead of coconut “grits”?
For a traditional take, you can use regular grits, but that would increase the carb content, making it less keto-friendly. The coconut “grits” keep this dish low-carb and keto-compliant. - Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini can enhance the flavor and add nutrients without a significant carb increase. Just sauté them with the mushrooms and onions.
Enjoy your unique, low-carb shrimp and “grits” with a refreshing tropical twist!
