Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (known as Cóctel de Camarones) is a fresh, vibrant, and flavorful dish often served as a cold appetizer or snack, perfect for warm weather or festive occasions. It features shrimp in a tangy, spicy tomato-based sauce with a mix of vegetables and a touch of avocado for creaminess. It’s often enjoyed with crispy tortilla chips on the side.
Here’s a classic recipe for Mexican Shrimp Cocktail:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined (preferably medium to large shrimp)
- 1 cup tomato juice (preferably freshly made or a good-quality brand)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (like Tapatío or Valentina, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/2 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1/2 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for garnish
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the shrimp: If using raw shrimp, cook them in boiling water with a pinch of salt for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside. For pre-cooked shrimp, simply thaw and drain any excess water.
- Make the cocktail sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the tomato juice, ketchup, lime juice, and hot sauce. Stir to blend. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more lime juice or hot sauce depending on your preference for tanginess and spice.
- Add the vegetables: To the sauce, add the finely chopped onion, diced tomato, diced cucumber, and cilantro. Stir to combine.
- Incorporate the shrimp and avocado: Add the cooked shrimp to the bowl and gently mix. Fold in the diced avocado, being careful not to mash it.
- Season: Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. If you prefer a richer texture, you can drizzle in a bit of olive oil at this point.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the shrimp cocktail for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to marinate and develop.
- Serve: Serve the shrimp cocktail chilled, garnished with extra lime wedges and fresh cilantro. You can also serve it in individual glasses or bowls for a more elegant presentation.
Optional Additions:
- Cilantro stems: If you like the herb’s bold flavor, add chopped cilantro stems for a stronger taste.
- Tossed vegetables: Some variations include diced bell peppers or jicama for added crunch and freshness.
- Clamato juice: A mix of tomato and clam juice is often used for an added depth of flavor in some regional versions of this cocktail.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the shrimp cocktail with crispy tortilla chips or crackers for dipping.
- Pair it with a cold beer or a refreshing Michelada (a Mexican beer cocktail) for an authentic Mexican touch.
Enjoy your Mexican Shrimp Cocktail—it’s a perfect appetizer for summer gatherings or a tasty starter to a larger Mexican meal!
