Pacific White Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Prepare poaching liquid

In a large saucepan or pot, combine 10 cups water, kosher salt, bay leaves, peppercorns and the halved lemon (cut side down). Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.

Poach shrimp

When the liquid reaches a gentle simmer (small bubbles rising, not a rolling boil), add the shrimp in a single layer. Return to a simmer and cook until the shrimp are just opaque and curl into a loose C shape, about 2 to 3 minutes depending on size.

Shock shrimp

Immediately transfer the cooked shrimp to a large bowl of ice and 3 cups of cold water to stop cooking. Leave shrimp in the ice bath for 3 minutes until fully chilled.

Drain and chill

Drain the shrimp well, pat dry with paper towels, and refrigerate uncovered for 10–15 minutes to firm up. Keep chilled until ready to serve.

Combine ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, prepared horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce until smooth.

Season

Add smoked paprika (if using), sea salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust: more horseradish for heat, more lemon for brightness, or a few additional drops of hot sauce for spice.

Chill

Refrigerate the sauce for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld. Bring back to cool temperature before serving.

Prepare papaya

Peel and halve the papaya. Remove seeds and dice half the papaya into 1/2-inch cubes. For presentation, slice the remaining half into thin fan slices or small wedges.

Marinate lightly

Toss the diced papaya with 1 teaspoon lime zest and a squeeze (about 1 tsp) of lime juice to brighten flavor. Let rest 5 minutes.

Assemble

Arrange a bed of microgreens (if using) or cilantro on chilled serving plates or a large platter. Spoon a generous tablespoon of cocktail sauce into small individual ramekins or place a pool of sauce on the platter. Neatly arrange chilled shrimp around the sauce. Scatter diced papaya and fan slices among shrimp and garnish with extra cilantro leaves and lime wedges.

Serve

Serve immediately while shrimp are chilled. Encourage diners to dip shrimp into cocktail sauce and enjoy bites with papaya for sweetness and citrus contrast.