A Taste of Creole Culinary Tradition
Imagine the rich, bold flavors of New Orleans dancing on your plate – tender beef, creamy grits, and a symphony of Creole spices that tell a story of culinary heritage.
Ingredients
For the Creole Beef
- Beef Sirloin or Flank Steak: 1 lb (454 g), cut into bite-sized strips
- Olive Oil or Butter: 1 tbsp (15 ml)
- Onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
- Bell Pepper: 1, sliced
- Garlic: 2 cloves (6 g), minced
- Tony’s More Spice Creole Seasoning: 1 tbsp (15 g)
- Smoked Paprika: 1 tsp (2 g)
- Cayenne Pepper: 1/2 tsp (1 g), optional
- Beef Broth or Water: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tbsp (15 ml)
- Hot Sauce: 1 tsp (5 ml), optional
For the Grits
- Stone Ground Grits: 1 cup (165 g)
- Water or Chicken Broth: 4 cups (960 ml)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp (3 g)
- Butter: 1 tbsp (14 g)
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (112 g), shredded, optional
- Heavy Cream or Milk: 1/4 cup (60 ml), optional
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Grits
- Bring water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan
- Stir in salt
- Gradually whisk in grits
- Reduce heat to low
- Stir continuously to prevent lumps
- Simmer uncovered 20-25 minutes
- Stir in butter and cheese
- Add cream if needed for desired consistency
- Keep warm
- Cook the Creole Beef
- Heat oil or butter in a large skillet
- Add beef strips
- Season with salt, pepper, Creole seasoning, paprika, cayenne
- Sauté 4-5 minutes until browned
- Remove beef and set aside
- In same skillet, sauté onion, bell pepper, garlic
- Cook 3-4 minutes until soft
- Return beef to skillet
- Add broth, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce
- Stir and scrape browned bits
- Simmer 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens
- Assemble the Dish
- Spoon grits onto plate
- Top with Creole beef and vegetables
- Garnish with parsley or green onions
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
Cooking Pro Tips
- Use low, slow heat for creamy grits
- Don’t skip deglazing the pan
- Fresh herbs make a huge difference
- Adjust spice level to taste
Recipe Variations
- Substitute beef with shrimp or chicken
- Use different cheese varieties
- Add bacon or andouille sausage
- Make vegetarian with plant-based protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make grits ahead of time? A: Yes, reheat with additional liquid
Q: Gluten-free options? A: Ensure seasoning is gluten-free
Q: How to prevent lumpy grits? A: Whisk constantly, add slowly
Q: Can I use instant grits? A: Stone-ground recommended for best texture
Q: Dairy-free alternatives? A: Use plant-based milk and omit cheese
Serving Suggestions
- Serve immediately while hot
- Pair with a crisp white wine
- Perfect for brunch or dinner
Dive into this hearty, flavorful New Orleans Beef and Grits that brings the spirit of the Big Easy to your table!