Mexican Shrimp Cocktail: A Flavorful, Refreshing Delight

How to Make Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp

  1. Prepare the shrimp: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
  2. Chill the shrimp: Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pot and place them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process and chill them quickly. Drain the shrimp thoroughly and set them aside.
  3. Marinate the shrimp: In a bowl, combine the shrimp with the fresh lime juice, salt, pepper, and chili powder (if using). Stir well and let the shrimp marinate for 10-15 minutes in the refrigerator. This allows the shrimp to absorb the tangy lime flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Cocktail Sauce

  1. Mix the sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the ketchup, lime juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and chili powder. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
  2. Add the fresh ingredients: Add the chopped cilantro, red onion, cucumber, and avocado (if using) to the sauce. Stir everything together and taste the mixture. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional hot sauce if you want more spice.

Step 3: Assemble the Cocktail

  1. Combine shrimp and sauce: Add the marinated shrimp into the cocktail sauce mixture and stir to coat them evenly with the sauce.
  2. Chill the cocktail: For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the shrimp cocktail for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
PREPARATION