Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
- Boil the Water:
- In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the salt, bay leaf, and lemon slices.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp to the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them.
- Cool the Shrimp:
- Remove the shrimp from the pot and place them in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces if they are large.
Step 2: Prepare the Cocktail Sauce
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a large bowl, combine the tomato ketchup, clam juice (or shrimp stock), fresh lime juice, hot sauce, chopped cilantro, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
Step 3: Assemble the Cocktail
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the chopped red onion, cucumber, tomato, celery, and avocado to the cocktail sauce. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add the Shrimp:
- Gently fold in the cooked shrimp, ensuring they are well coated with the sauce.
- Chill:
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the shrimp cocktail for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish:
- Before serving, garnish with additional fresh cilantro leaves.
- Serve:
- Serve the Mexican Shrimp Cocktail chilled, accompanied by tortilla chips or saltine crackers and lime wedges on the side.
Tips for Perfect Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
- Freshness: Use the freshest shrimp you can find for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the cocktail sauce and adjust the hot sauce, lime juice, salt, and pepper to your liking.
- Vegetable Prep: Ensure all vegetables are finely chopped for a uniform texture and better blending of flavors.
- Chill Time: Allowing the cocktail to chill for at least an hour helps enhance the flavors, making the dish even more delicious.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 200-250
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
Conclusion
Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of tender shrimp, fresh vegetables, and tangy sauce, it’s a refreshing and satisfying treat. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a light meal, or a party dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy this delightful Mexican Shrimp Cocktail with friends and family, and savor the taste of fresh, zesty flavors!