Shrimp Cocktail
No party is complete without Shrimp Cocktail - it's a classic appetizer that never goes out of style. Our version features poached shrimp served with tangy cocktail sauce, making it the perfect starter for any occasion. Impress your guests with this timeless crowd-pleaser that is always a hit!
**Ingredients:**
For the Poached Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails left on, if desired)
- 4 cups water
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cocktail Sauce:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Hot sauce, to taste (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
- Ice, for serving
**Instructions:**
**Poaching the Shrimp:**
1. In a large pot, combine the water, lemon slices, bay leaf, black peppercorns, and salt. Bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the boiling water. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are no longer translucent.
3. Remove the shrimp from the boiling water and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to cool and stop the cooking process.
**Making the Cocktail Sauce:**
1. In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, prepared horseradish, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using). Adjust the heat level to your liking.
2. Season the cocktail sauce with salt and black pepper, and mix well.
**Assembling the Shrimp Cocktail:**
1. Arrange a bed of ice in a serving dish or individual cocktail glasses.
2. Place the chilled poached shrimp on top of the ice.
3. Serve the shrimp cocktail with the prepared cocktail sauce, lemon wedges, and a garnish of fresh parsley or cilantro.
4. Optionally, you can serve the shrimp cocktail with additional hot sauce or horseradish for those who prefer extra heat.
Shrimp Cocktail is a classic and elegant seafood appetizer that's perfect for special occasions and gatherings. Enjoy the chilled, succulent shrimp with the zesty cocktail sauce!