Shrimp Cocktail Recipe

Time40m
Serves4

Cocktail Sauce, Dijonnaise, Horseradish, Lemon

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Ingredients

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Shrimp

Dijonnaise

Method

Shrimp

1

Bring poaching liquid to a simmer

In a large saucepan combine 3 cups water, 1 cup white wine (optional), 1 tablespoon kosher salt, 8 peppercorns, 1 bay leaf and the halved lemon (cut side down). Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat — do not boil vigorously.

2

Poach shrimp

Add the shrimp in a single layer. When the liquid returns to a gentle simmer, cook shrimp 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and curl but are still slightly translucent at the thickest part. Cooking time depends on shrimp size; avoid overcooking.

3

Shock and chill

Immediately transfer shrimp to a bowl of ice and 4 cups ice water to stop cooking. Leave until shrimp are completely chilled, about 5 minutes. Drain and pat dry with paper towels. Keep refrigerated until serving.

Cocktail Sauce

4

In a medium bowl combine 1 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon hot sauce if using. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Taste and adjust horseradish, lemon, or hot sauce for desired heat and brightness. Refrigerate at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld.

Dijonnaise

5

Whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon olive oil until smooth. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Adjust mustard or lemon to taste. Chill until serving.

Garnish & Assembly

6

Arrange chilled shrimp on a platter or individual cocktail glasses over ice. Spoon cocktail sauce into a small bowl or into the center of each serving. Place dijonnaise in a second small bowl. Provide extra prepared horseradish (1 teaspoon) for guests who want more heat.

7

Garnish with lemon wedges and sprinkle chopped parsley over the platter. Serve immediately, letting guests dip shrimp into cocktail sauce or dijonnaise and squeeze lemon as desired.