Grandma’s Old-School Comfort Food

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Grandma’s old-fashioned recipes, passed down through generations, hold a special place in our hearts. They evoke memories of cozy kitchens, warm aromas, and the comforting taste of home. Inspired by these cherished traditions, I’ve crafted a dish that pays homage to the past while embracing the future. It’s a culinary journey that blends the familiar with the exotic, resulting in a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 1 pound jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

    • Preparation:

    1. Prep the Protein: Season the chicken and shrimp with salt and pepper. In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Dredge the chicken and shrimp in the flour, then dip them in the egg mixture, and finally coat them in the breadcrumbs.
    2. Sauté the Veggies: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
    3. Create the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
    4. Fry the Protein: In a separate skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded chicken and shrimp until golden brown and cooked through.
    5. Combine and Serve: Add the fried chicken and shrimp to the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until heated through. Serve over rice or noodles, garnished with fresh cilantro.

    Total Time: 45 minutes

    Serving Ideas:

    Elevated Presentation: Serve in individual bowls, garnished with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of cheese, and a lime wedge.

  • Family-Style Feast: Serve in a large, shallow dish, accompanied by warm tortillas, avocado slices, and a variety of salsas.
  • Weeknight Wonder: Reheat leftovers in a skillet with a splash of broth, and serve over rice or pasta for a quick and easy meal.

    • A Fusion of Flavors

    This dish is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, inspired by the vibrant cuisines of Mexico and the American South. The rich tomato sauce, smoky spices, and tender protein create a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s a modern take on a classic comfort food, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

    As you savor each bite, may it transport you to a time of simpler pleasures, where the aroma of cooking filled the air and the warmth of loved ones surrounded you.