Mexican shrimp cocktail, also known as “coctel de camarones,” is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines cooked shrimp with a medley of vegetables and a tangy tomato-based sauce. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:
Ingredients:
For the Cocktail:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
For the Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups tomato juice or Clamato
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Tabasco), adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon horseradish (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook. Drain the shrimp and let them cool.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the tomato juice or Clamato, ketchup, lime juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference. Chill the sauce in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Assemble the Cocktail:
- Once the shrimp have cooled, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp with diced cucumber, tomato, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño pepper (if using).
- Pour the chilled sauce over the shrimp and vegetable mixture. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Just before serving, gently stir in the diced avocado.
- Serve the Mexican shrimp cocktail in individual glasses or bowls, garnished with additional cilantro and lime wedges on the side.
Enjoy your refreshing Mexican shrimp cocktail as a starter or light meal! Adjust the spiciness and seasoning according to your taste preferences.