polenta with shrimp and mango salsa
Inspired by southern favorite shrimp and grits - this dish delivers the staple with some heat! Polenta is an Italian comfort food similar to grits, and serving it with Mexican style shrimp and mango salsa creates an unexpected twist to this classic.
What is polenta?
Polenta is made from ground yellow corn with a texture and flavor similar to grits, and is considered a great source of protein and fiber. It dates back all the way to ancient Sumerians and is considered to be one of the oldest known recipes. Being filling and cheap to make, polenta was particularly popular with peasant families living in northern Italy.
How to make polenta with shrimp and mango salsa?
In a medium bowl mix together the chopped mangoes, red onion, cilantro, 1 chopped jalapeño and lime juice. Cover and set aside. In a medium bowl mix together shrimp, 1 tbsp olive oil, chili powder, cumin, and 1/2 tsp salt. Cover and set aside. In a large cast iron skillet, cook the sliced bacon, scotch bonnet pepper, and remaining jalapeños over medium heat until crispy. Then add chicken stock and milk, and bring to simmer. Whisk in cornmeal and keep simmering for about 20 minutes until it’s consistency of a porridge. Once the polenta is done, turn off the heat and whisk in cheese. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil on a large pan. Cook the marinated shrimp over medium heat for 2 minutes on each side. Immediately plate the polenta, mango salsa, and shrimp. Serve hot.
Tips
Over cooking shrimp will make it rubbery - you can tell shrimp is done when it’s shaped like C and feels firm but bouncy. If the ends touch each other and it feels stiff it’s overdone.
If you want less heat switch the scotch bonnet pepper for an extra jalapeno!