Cura is proud to feature several of our gifted culinarians during National Culinary Arts Month celebrated in July! Learn how one of our healthcare chefs prepares a nourishing dish that is comforting, while locally inspired…
Inspired by Gulf Coast traditions and Louisiana roots, Chef and Director of Dining Services Tabari Williamson prepares Cajun Shrimp Grit Cakes delivered with warmth and familiarity to Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This dish reimagines a Southern classic into a refined, composed entree that feels special, yet remains production friendly.
The crisp grit cake offers structure and heartiness, while Gulf shrimp seasoned with balanced Cajun spice deliver bold but approachable flavor. Finished with a rich andouille cream sauce and fresh green onions, each bite is layered with comfort and care.
This dish reflects our belief that even in a healthcare environment, food can feel meaningful, memorable, and made with intention.
Cajun Shrimp Grit Cakes with Andouille Cream Sauce
Southern-inspired, competition-ready dish featuring crispy grit cakes, bold Cajun shrimp, and a rich
andouille cream sauce.
Grit Cakes
Ingredients
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups chicken stock
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup sharp white cheddar, shredded
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt & white pepper, to taste
• Pinch cayenne
• Neutral oil for pan-searing
Instructions
1 Bring chicken stock and cream to a boil. Slowly whisk in grits.
2 Reduce heat and simmer 20–25 minutes, stirring often, until thick and creamy.
3 Stir in butter, cheeses, salt, white pepper, and cayenne.
4 Remove from heat and cool slightly. Stir in beaten egg.
5 Spread grits ½–¾ inch thick in a lined pan. Chill at least 1 hour.
6 Cut into rounds or squares.
7 Pan-sear in oil over medium heat until golden and crisp on both sides.
Cajun Shrimp
Ingredients
• 1 lb. Gulf shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
1 Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning, paprika, and garlic powder.
2 Heat oil and butter in skillet over medium-high heat.
3 Sauté shrimp 1–2 minutes per side until just cooked.
Andouille Cream Sauce
Ingredients
• 4 oz andouille sausage, finely diced
• ½ cup onion, minced
• ¼ cup bell pepper, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup white wine or chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ tsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Green onions for garnish
Instructions
1 Sauté andouille until lightly crisp.
2 Add onion and bell pepper; cook until softened.
3 Add garlic; cook 30 seconds.
4 Deglaze with wine and reduce by half.
5 Stir in cream and Cajun seasoning; simmer until thickened.
Assembly
1 Place grit cake on plate.
2 Spoon andouille cream sauce over grit cake.
3 Top with shrimp.
4 Garnish with green onions or microgreens
