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Flavorful Shrimp Cocktail Recipe with Easy Spicy Horseradish Sauce

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A quick and easy shrimp cocktail featuring tender poached shrimp paired with a zesty, spicy horseradish sauce. Perfect for appetizers or light dinners, this recipe balances fresh sweetness with a punchy kick.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on for presentation)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the poaching liquid: In a large pot, combine water, lemon slices, smashed garlic, salt, peppercorns, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat (about 5 minutes).
  2. Poach the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the simmering liquid in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking; they should feel firm but tender. Use a slotted spoon to remove them immediately and transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking and keep them chilled (about 5 minutes).
  3. Drain and dry: Remove shrimp from ice water and pat dry with paper towels. Set aside in the fridge until ready to serve.
  4. Make the spicy horseradish sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more horseradish or cayenne if you want it spicier. Chill until serving.
  5. Assemble and serve: Arrange shrimp on a serving platter or in individual cocktail glasses. Spoon the spicy horseradish sauce into a bowl for dipping or drizzle lightly over the shrimp. Garnish with lemon wedges or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Avoid overcooking shrimp to keep them tender. The ice bath stops cooking and chills the shrimp. Sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead and kept refrigerated. Adjust horseradish and cayenne pepper to control spice level. Fresh lemon juice is preferred for brightness. Chilling serving dishes enhances presentation and taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp cocktail, spicy horseradish sauce, appetizer, quick recipe, easy shrimp recipe, poached shrimp, party appetizer

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/flavorful-shrimp-cocktail-recipe-with-easy-spicy-horseradish-sauce/