Mexicen shrimp cocktail

Mexican shrimp cocktail, also known as “Cóctel de Camarones,” is a refreshing and zesty dish often enjoyed as an appetizer. Here’s a traditional recipe to make this delightful cocktail:

Ingredients:

• For the Shrimp:
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/2 cup white onion, roughly chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon salt
• For the Cocktail Sauce:
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup clamato juice (or tomato juice)
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Valentina or Cholula)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Mix-ins:
  • 1/2 cup white onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced
  • 1 cup tomato, diced
  • 1/2 cup cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
  • 1 avocado, diced

Instructions:

1. Cook the Shrimp:
   • In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the white onion, garlic, bay leaf, and salt.
   • Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque.
   • Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cocktail Sauce:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ketchup, clamato juice, lime juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.
   • Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Cocktail:
   • Add the finely chopped white onion, cucumber, tomato, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), and avocado to the cocktail sauce. Stir to combine.
   • Add the cooked shrimp and gently fold them into the mixture.
4. Chill and Serve:
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
   • Serve the shrimp cocktail in individual cups or bowls. Garnish with additional cilantro and a lime wedge if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with saltine crackers or tostadas on the side.
• Offer extra hot sauce for those who like more heat.
• A cold Mexican beer or a michelada pairs wonderfully with this dish.

Enjoy your homemade Mexican shrimp cocktail!