Shrimp Fra Diavolo with Goat Cheese Polenta

Steps

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1. 1
   Prepare the shrimp by removing the tails and deveining them. Split each shrimp in half lengthwise so they form a firm, lobster-like texture when cooked.
   ▶ ≈1:08
2. 2
   Heat a pan with olive oil over high heat and quickly sauté the shrimp until golden on all sides but not fully cooked through, creating a flavorful caramelization.
   ▶ ≈2:40
3. 3
   Remove the shrimp and set aside. Add more olive oil to the same pan and sauté the diced onion until caramelized, seasoning with salt and pepper.
   ▶ ≈6:04
4. 4
   Add the garlic, fresh hot chili pepper, chili flakes, and fresh thyme to the pan and cook until fragrant.
   ▶ ≈7:53
5. 5
   Stir in the tomato paste and caramelize it together with the garlic to develop deeper flavor.
   ▶ ≈8:25
6. 6
   Deglaze the pan with white wine and let it reduce until the alcohol evaporates and the sauce concentrates.
   ▶ ≈9:00
7. 7
   Pour in the crushed canned tomatoes and add the dry oregano. Let the sauce simmer gently. If it becomes too thick, add chicken stock to reach the desired consistency.
   ▶ ≈9:30
8. 8
   Prepare the polenta by heating the chicken stock and buttermilk together in a separate pot until boiling.
   ▶ ≈10:28
9. 9
   In a food processor, blend the eggs, corn kernels, and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
   ▶ ≈11:04
10. 10
    Slowly whisk in the cornmeal to the boiling stock mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
    ▶ ≈12:13
11. 11
    Pour the egg and corn mixture from the food processor into the cooking cornmeal, stirring well. The eggs will cook immediately, creating a smooth mashed potato-like consistency.
    ▶ ≈12:35
12. 12
    Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add goat cheese if desired. Continue stirring for another 2-3 minutes until reaching the desired consistency.
    ▶ ≈13:58
13. 13
    Return the sautéed shrimp to the tomato sauce and gently toss to combine. Heat through until the shrimp is fully cooked.
    ▶ ≈16:24
14. 14
    Garnish the shrimp and sauce with freshly chopped parsley. Zest a whole lemon over the top to brighten all the flavors.
    ▶ ≈16:45
15. 15
    Stir butter into the polenta to make it creamy and rich. Add the butter off the heat to avoid overheating.
    ▶ ≈18:16
16. 16
    Place a generous portion of polenta on each plate and arrange the spicy shrimp around or on top of it. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
    ▶ ≈19:56