Shrimp Cocktail Recipe
The shrimp cocktail has its origins in the early 20th century, where it became a popular dish in American cuisine. The name "cocktail" is derived from the practice of serving the shrimp in a cocktail glass, often accompanied by a tomato-based sauce.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Slotted spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Ice bath (large bowl filled with ice and water)
- Serving platter or cocktail glasses
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp (16-20 count), peeled and deveined, tails on
- 4 cups water
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or any seafood seasoning)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Ice for cooling
For the Cocktail Sauce:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the Water: In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Squeeze the juice from the lemon halves into the water, then drop the lemon halves into the pot. Add the Old Bay seasoning, bay leaves, and salt to the water.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.
- Cool the Shrimp: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked shrimp to an ice bath. Let them cool completely for about 5 minutes. This step helps stop the cooking process and keeps the shrimp tender.
- Drain and Chill: Once cooled, drain the shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels. Place the shrimp in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to chill.
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using).
- Season: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. If you prefer a spicier sauce, add more horseradish or hot sauce.
- Chill the Sauce: Cover the sauce and refrigerate it until ready to serve.
- Arrange the Shrimp: On a serving platter or individual cocktail glasses, arrange the chilled shrimp in a circular pattern.
- Add the Sauce: Place a small bowl of cocktail sauce in the center of the platter or add a dollop of sauce to each glass.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with lemon wedges or parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.