Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsDjangoClassic Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Classic Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Inspired by Django
Time30m
Serves4

Chilled poached shrimp, house cocktail sauce, lemon

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Ingredients

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Shrimp

Method

Poach Shrimp

  1. 1

    Prepare the Poaching Liquid

    In a large pot, combine 4 cups of water, the juice of 1 lemon half, Old Bay seasoning, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

  2. 2

    Poach the Shrimp

    Once the water is boiling, add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Do not overcook.

  3. 3

    Cool the Shrimp

    Remove the shrimp from the pot and transfer them to an ice bath (a bowl of ice water) to stop cooking. Let them chill for about 5 minutes.

Prepare Cocktail Sauce

  1. 4

    Mix the Sauce

    In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of horseradish, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce if desired. Mix well until smooth.

Serve

  1. 5

    Plate the Shrimp

    Arrange the chilled shrimp on a serving platter. Garnish with lemon wedges and sprinkle fresh parsley on top.

  2. 6

    Serve with Cocktail Sauce

    Serve the shrimp alongside the cocktail sauce for dipping.

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