Southern Shrimp and Grits

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups water
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup grits (stone-ground, medium ground or fine depending on preference)
• 4 to 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese or other sharp cheese
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter or olive oil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1-2 teaspoons parsley, chopped
• 1/4 onion
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 pound medium to large shrimp, peeled, rinsed and patted dry
• Vegetable oil, for cooking