Local Republic’s Shrimp and “Grits”

Let me share the simplest, best way to fix cornmeal polenta, courtesy of Scott Simon chef at Local Republic in Lawrenceville. He uses cooked cornmeal as a substitute for grits in what is otherwise a pretty traditional shrimp and grits recipe. I’ve used this idea now a half dozen times as a bed for fresh fish (while at the beach), sautéed vegetables, you name it. Love it.

After you try this, if you like the texture of the cooked cornmeal, remember the proportion of 4 cups liquid to 1 1/4 cups cornmeal. And of course, if you want yours thicker or thinner, just adjust the amount of liquid. Now you can make this any time you need a quick carb. Really – a side dish in 3 minutes? What’s not to love?

Notes on Apples

I’m excited to see the apples start this week, the start of a weekly apple installment that will take us well into the fall. Typically, the first apples of the year are better for cooking as they are more tart. This (weird) year, however, boxes could have contained red delicious, golden delicious, golden something-or-other, and Read More…