How to Make Chef John's Shrimp Cocktail - A Step-by-Step Guide

There are few appetizers more classic and beloved than shrimp cocktail. And when it comes to creating the perfect shrimp cocktail, Chef John has perfected the recipe. With succulent, perfectly cooked shrimp and a tangy, zesty cocktail sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you're hosting a fancy dinner party or simply want to treat yourself to a delicious starter, Chef John's shrimp cocktail is the perfect choice.

What sets this shrimp cocktail apart is the att...

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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

Information

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins
  • Additional Time: 15 mins
  • Total Time: 50 mins
  • Servings: 4

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

    306 cal.

    • Total Fat: 4g
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
    • Cholesterol: 345mg
    • Sodium: 1415mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 19g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Total Sugars: 10g
    • Protein: 48g
    • Vitamin C: 29mg
    • Calcium: 175mg
    • Iron: 6mg
    • Potassium: 702mg