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Classic and Mexican Shrimp Cocktail: Two Refreshing Appetizer Recipes

Close-up of a vibrant shrimp cocktail served in a glass with a spiced rim, garnished with cilantro and a lime wedge.
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Learn how to make two distinct, refreshing shrimp cocktail dishes: the Classic Chilled Appetizer with Zesty Homemade Sauce and the vibrant Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Coctel de Camarones). Both recipes are simple, quick, and perfect for parties or light meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 1 bay leaf
  • For Classic Cocktail Sauce:
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup prepared horseradish (or more for extra kick)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
  • For Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Coctel de Camarones):
  • 1 1/2 cups tomato juice
  • 1/2 cup clamato juice (optional, for depth)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh tomato
  • 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (like Valentina or Cholula)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Avocado slices and lime wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the Shrimp: In a saucepan, combine water, vinegar, salt, peppercorns, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Immediately drain and plunge the shrimp into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cool, drain well and pat dry.
  2. Prepare Classic Cocktail Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning. Cover and chill for at least 15 minutes.
  3. Prepare Mexican Shrimp Cocktail Base: In a medium bowl, combine tomato juice, clamato juice (if using), ketchup, lime juice, chopped onion, tomato, cucumber, cilantro, and hot sauce. Stir well. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Assemble Classic Shrimp Cocktail: Arrange the chilled shrimp around the rim of a large glass bowl or individual serving glasses. Place a small cup of the homemade cocktail sauce in the center. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.
  5. Assemble Mexican Shrimp Cocktail: Add the cooked, cooled shrimp directly into the tomato base mixture. Stir gently to coat. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve cold in large glasses or bowls, garnished with avocado slices and extra lime wedges.

Notes

  • For the best texture, do not overcook the shrimp; they should be firm but tender.
  • You can prepare both sauces and the shrimp up to one day ahead. Keep them separate and assemble just before serving for the freshest taste.
  • For an elegant presentation of the classic version, serve the shrimp on a chilled platter arranged in a wreath shape around a central sauce bowl.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbyjade.com/shrimp-cocktail-classic-and-mexican-recipes/