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Chef John's Shrimp Cocktail

If you're in the mood for a classic seafood appetizer that's both refreshing and flavorful, look no further than Chef John's Shrimp Cocktail. This timeless dish features succulent, plump shrimp served with a zesty cocktail sauce that's sure to tantalize your taste buds. Chef John's recipe takes this beloved appetizer to the next level with its perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and sweet flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing choice for any gathering or special occasion.

Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

20 mins

Additional Time:

15 mins

Total Time:

50 mins

Servings:

Ingredients

3 quarts cold water

¼ onion, sliced

½ lemon

2 cloves garlic, peeled and bruised

2 sprigs fresh tarragon

1 tablespoon seafood seasoning (such as Old Bay®)

1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns

1 bay leaf

½ cup ketchup

¼ cup chili sauce

¼ cup prepared horseradish

1 teaspoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

3 drops hot sauce, or to taste

1 pinch salt

2 pounds shell-on deveined jumbo shrimp

Directions

Step 1

For the poaching liquid: Stir water, onion, lemon, garlic, tarragon, seafood seasoning, peppercorns, and bay leaf together in a large pot; bring to a simmer and cook until flavors blend, about 15 minutes.

Step 2

For the cocktail sauce: Whisk ketchup, chili sauce, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and salt together in a bowl; refrigerate until chilled, at least 15 minutes.

Step 3

For the shrimp: Bring poaching liquid to a rapid boil. Cook shrimp in the boiling liquid until they are bright pink on the outside and the meat is no longer transparent in the center, about 5 minutes. Transfer shrimp to a bowl of ice water and immerse in ice water until cold; drain.

Step 4

Arrange cold shrimp on a platter and serve with chilled sauce.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

306

Calories

Fat

19g

Carbs

48g

Protein

Complement

What sets Chef John's Shrimp Cocktail apart is the attention to detail in both the cooking of the shrimp and the preparation of the cocktail sauce. The shrimp are poached to tender perfection, ensuring that they are juicy and full of flavor. The cocktail sauce, with its combination of ketchup, horseradish, and citrus, packs a punch that perfectly complements the delicate sweetness of the shrimp. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious appetizer, Chef John's Shrimp Cocktail is a must-try recipe that is sure to become a staple in your entertaining repertoire.