Sep 15 2026
RestaurantsHook & BarrelPetite Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Petite Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Inspired by Hook & Barrel
Time35m
Serves6

Make Petite Shrimp Cocktail Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Cocktail Sauce

Method

Cocktail Sauce

  1. 1

    Make sauce

    In a medium bowl combine ketchup, prepared horseradish, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and taste; adjust heat or acidity by adding more horseradish, hot sauce, or lemon as needed. Chill while you prepare shrimp (at least 15 minutes).

Poached Shrimp

  1. 2

    Prepare poaching liquid

    In a wide saucepan combine water, white wine (if using), Kosher salt, halved lemon (squeeze one half into the pot and add both halves), bay leaf, and peppercorns. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat — do not boil rapidly.

  2. 3

    Poach shrimp

    When the liquid reaches a gentle simmer, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and curl into a loose 'C' shape, about 2 to 3 minutes for large shrimp. Do not overcook.

  3. 4

    Shock shrimp

    Immediately transfer the cooked shrimp with a slotted spoon into a bowl of ice water (or an ice bath) to stop the cooking. Let sit 2 to 3 minutes until fully chilled.

  4. 5

    Dry and chill

    Remove shrimp from the ice bath, pat dry with paper towels, and refrigerate until ready to serve. Trim or tidy tails if needed to fit petite glasses.

Garnish & Serving

  1. 6

    Assemble cocktails

    Spoon about 1 to 2 tablespoons of chilled cocktail sauce into the bottom of each petite glass or ramekin. Arrange 3 to 4 shrimp per glass (tail hanging over the rim if desired) and place a small lemon wedge on the side of each glass.

  2. 7

    Finish

    Sprinkle each serving with a pinch of sliced chives. If serving on a platter, fill a shallow tray with ice and nestle the glasses on top to keep chilled. Serve immediately.

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