How to Make a Perfect Shrimp Cocktail

Step 1

Fill a large saucepan 3/4 full of water.

Step 2

Add salt.

Step 3

If using lemon, squeeze the juice of the lemon into the pot and add the peel and flesh once squeezed. Add the peppercorns and parsley if using.

Step 4

Bring the pot to a rapid boil over high heat.

Step 5

Remove from the heat and let it stop boiling.

Step 6

Add the shrimp. Stir. Put the lid on the saucepan.Cover the pot. Let sit for 4-5 minutes, until shrimp are opaque and pink.

Step 7

Meanwhile, prepare an ice bath: In a large bowl put two cups of ice cubes and fill halfway with cold water.

Step 8

When shrimp are cooked, drain off the hot liquid and transfer shrimp (but not the aromatics) to the ice bath. Let them sit in there for a few minutes to fully cool off before draining.

Step 9

Peel shrimp but leave the tails on.

Step 10

In a medium bowl, combine the ketchup, horseradish, pinch of salt, and the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce, if using.

Step 11

Taste, add more horseradish if desired.

Step 12

Divide sauce among 4 small bowls or wine glasses or martini glasses.

Step 13

Hang shrimp from the rims. Serve immediately. (See above in blog post for alternate serving suggestions.)