Shrimp Cocktail Recipe
Make Shrimp Cocktail Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Cocktail Sauce
Poached Shrimp
To Serve
Method
Cocktail Sauce
Combine Sauce
In a medium bowl, add 1 cup ketchup, 3 tablespoons prepared horseradish, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce and 1 teaspoon hot sauce.
Whisk in 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper and 1/2 teaspoon sugar if using. Taste and adjust horseradish for heat, lemon for brightness, or salt for seasoning.
Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld (can be made up to 2 days ahead).
Poached Shrimp
Prepare Poaching Liquid
In a large pot bring 8 cups water to a rolling simmer. Add 2 tablespoons coarse salt, 1 cup lemon slices, 2 bay leaves, 1 tablespoon peppercorns and 1/4 cup fresh parsley if using. Reduce heat so liquid is at a gentle simmer — not a hard boil.
Blanch Shrimp
Add the 24 large shrimp in a single layer to the simmering liquid. Stir gently to separate. Cook just until the shrimp turn pink and curl into a loose 'C' shape, about 2 to 3 minutes depending on size. Do not overcook.
Shock Shrimp
Prepare a large bowl with 4 cups ice and cold water to make an ice bath. Using a slotted spoon, transfer shrimp immediately into the ice bath to stop cooking. Leave in ice bath until completely chilled, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Drain shrimp well on a paper towel-lined tray. Pat dry gently and refrigerate until ready to serve. Shrimp can be cooked and chilled up to 1 day ahead; keep covered in the refrigerator.
To Serve
Assemble
Fill individual cocktail glasses or a shallow platter with 4 cups crushed ice or an ice bed. Place a generous spoonful of cocktail sauce in the bottom of each glass or in individual small ramekins on the platter.
Serve immediately so the shrimp remain chilled. Provide extra cocktail sauce and lemon wedges on the side. Estimated presentation holds for about 30 minutes before ice melts — replenish ice as needed.