Middle Eastern Style Shrimp & Grits

This Middle Eastern twist on the classic shrimp and grits features za’atar-spiced shrimp served over creamy seafood and labneh-infused grits, all finished with a tangy pomegranate reduction and toasted pine nuts. A unique fusion of Southern comfort food and Middle Eastern flavors, this dish is perfect for an elegant dinner or a bold weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Creamy Grits – Seafood broth and labneh create an ultra-smooth, flavorful base.
• Bold Za’atar Shrimp – A smoky, herby spice blend enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
• Tangy Pomegranate Glaze – Adds a sweet-tart contrast that balances the dish.
• Nutty & Textured Garnish – Toasted pine nuts and pomegranate seeds bring crunch and depth.
• Elegant Yet Easy – Perfect for impressing guests while being simple to prepare.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Za’atar Shrimp:

• Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Olive oil
• Za’atar spice blend
• Salt & black pepper
• Garlic (minced)
• Lemon juice

For the Seafood & Labneh Grits:

• Stone-ground grits
• Seafood broth (or water)
• Milk
• Labneh (or Greek yogurt)
• Salt
• Smoked paprika
• Ground cumin
• Sautéed mushrooms (optional)

For the Pomegranate Reduction:

• Pomegranate juice
• Honey
• Balsamic vinegar

For Garnish:

• Pomegranate seeds
• Toasted pine nuts
• Fresh parsley (chopped)

Directions

Marinate the Shrimp:

1. Toss shrimp with olive oil, za’atar, salt, pepper, garlic, and lemon juice in a bowl.
2. Let marinate for 10 minutes while preparing the other components.

Cook the Grits:

3. In a saucepan, bring seafood broth and milk to a simmer.
4. Whisk in grits and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in labneh, salt, smoked paprika, cumin, and mushrooms (if using). Keep warm.

Make the Pomegranate Reduction:

6. In a small pan, simmer pomegranate juice, honey, and balsamic vinegar over medium heat.
7. Reduce until thickened (about 10 minutes). Set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp:

8. Heat a pan over medium-high heat.
9. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, until opaque and lightly caramelized.

Assemble the Dish:

10. Spoon grits onto a plate and top with shrimp.
11. Drizzle with pomegranate reduction.
12. Garnish with pomegranate seeds, pine nuts, and fresh parsley.

Serve & Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add a dash of Aleppo pepper or harissa for extra heat.
• Cheesy Grits – Stir in feta or Parmesan for added richness.
• Vegan Version – Swap shrimp for roasted cauliflower and use vegetable broth.
• Grilled Shrimp – Instead of sautéing, grill the shrimp for a smoky finish.
• Crispy Topping – Garnish with fried shallots for an extra layer of crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm shrimp in a pan over low heat and reheat grits with a splash of milk or broth to loosen them.
• Freezing: Grits can be frozen for up to 2 months, but shrimp is best served fresh.

FAQs

What is za’atar?

Za’atar is a Middle Eastern spice blend made of thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and oregano, known for its earthy, citrusy flavor.

Can I make this without seafood broth?

Yes! Substitute with vegetable or chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor.

What pairs well with this dish?

Serve with grilled flatbread, roasted eggplant, or a simple cucumber salad.

Can I use instant grits?

Yes, but stone-ground grits have a creamier texture and richer taste. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

How do I know when shrimp is fully cooked?

Shrimp turns pink and opaque when done. Avoid overcooking, as it can become rubbery.

What other nuts can I use?

Swap pine nuts for slivered almonds, pistachios, or walnuts for different textures.

Can I prepare any part of this in advance?

Yes! Make the grits and pomegranate reduction ahead of time, then cook shrimp fresh before serving.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before marinating and cooking.

Conclusion

Middle Eastern Style Shrimp & Grits is a flavor-packed fusion dish that blends Southern comfort with bold Middle Eastern spices. With za’atar-spiced shrimp, creamy labneh grits, and a tangy pomegranate reduction, this recipe offers an elegant, restaurant-quality meal at home. Try it today for an unforgettable culinary experience!