Classic Poached Shrimp Cocktail with Homemade Cocktail and Shrimp Louie Sauces

This Classic Poached Shrimp Cocktail recipe is an irresistible treat that never goes out of style. A shrimp cocktail appetizer stands as a testament to sophistication and simplicity. Delicately poached jumbo shrimp, perfectly seasoned and chilled to perfection, are accompanied by two delicious homemade sauces; a zesty cocktail sauce and a creamy Shrimp Louie sauce.

This iconic shrimp dish has remained a go-to for generations. Often served up at the finest restaurants, you can easily prepare this classic shrimp cocktail in your very own kitchen. It makes for a perfect party appetizer, as it can be prepared in advanced, and serve to your guests upon arrival. This recipe will yield approximately 8 servings.

What Kind of Shrimp to Use for Shrimp Cocktail

For a classic shrimp cocktail, it’s recommended to use larger-sized shrimp. The size specification is often denoted by a count per pound, such as 16-20 count, or larger. This means there are approximately 16 to 20 shrimp per pound.

Larger, jumbo-sized shrimp work well for shrimp cocktail. They provide a satisfying bite and showcase beautifully when arranged around the cocktail glass or platter. The size also allows for easier poaching and handling during the cooking process, ensuring the shrimp remain tender, and flavorful.

Can you use smaller-sized shrimp?

Yes, however adjust the poaching time accordingly.

Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp

When preparing shrimp cocktail, using fresh shrimp is ideal to achieve the best flavor and texture. However, high-quality frozen shrimp can also be a convenient and suitable option. If opting for frozen shrimp, it’s essential to properly thaw them before use.

To properly thaw frozen shrimp for shrimp cocktail:

• Thaw the shrimp in a bowl of cold water and place in the refrigerator overnight for a gradual thawing process.
• For a quicker thaw, add the shrimp to a bowl of cold water and set on counter or in sink, changing the water a few times until the shrimp are thawed.

Avoid thawing shrimp at room temperature or using warm water, as this can lead to uneven thawing and potential bacterial growth. Once thawed, rinse the shrimp under cold water.

Cleaning and Deveining Shrimp

Preferably, purchase fresh or frozen shrimp that have already been cleaned and deveined.

In the event that the shrimp have not been deveined, it’s imperative to devein the shrimp prior to poaching for shrimp cocktail. To devein shrimp:

1. Use a paring knife or shrimp deveiner tool.
2. Make a shallow incision along the back of the shrimp, just deep enough to expose the vein.
3. Gently lift out the vein using the tip of the knife or your fingers and discard it.
4. Rinse the shrimp under cold running water to remove any remaining bits or debris.

In addition, using tail-on shrimp for shrimp cocktail not only enhances the dish’s visual appeal but also offers functional advantages. The tails provide an attractive presentation, making the dish more visually appealing and inviting. Additionally, leaving the tails intact makes it easier for diners to pick up the shrimp and dip them into the accompanying sauce without getting their fingers messy.

Why Poach Shrimp?

Shrimp, by itself, has a relatively mild flavor compared to other seafood. The poaching liquid serves as an opportunity to infuse the shrimp with aromatics, herbs, spices, and seasonings. By quickly simmering the shrimp in a flavorful broth or liquid, the shrimp absorbs these surrounding flavors, enhancing its overall taste profile.

It’s through this process that shrimp cocktail gains its distinctive taste, making the quality and richness of the poaching liquid a critical component in elevating the overall flavor profile of this classic shrimp dish.

How to Prepare a Classic Shrimp Cocktail Appetizer

Preparing a classic shrimp cocktail appetizer is more than just opening a bag of frozen, cooked shrimp; thawing and plating with store-bought cocktail sauce.

If you want a more classic preparation and presentation, poaching raw shrimp in a broth of flavorful aromatics is a game-changer:

1. Prepare Shrimp:
   • Season the tail-on, deveined jumbo shrimp with salt. Refrigerate while preparing the poaching liquid.
2. Prepare Poaching Liquid:
   • Heat olive oil in a deep pot and season celery, fennel, onions, garlic, and peppercorns with a touch of salt and sauté until slightly colored.
   • Add white wine, clam juice, lemon juice, squeezed lemons, fennel fronds, fresh parsley, bay leaves, coconut milk, and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for at least 30 minutes.
3. Make Cocktail Sauce:
   • Combine all ingredients for the cocktail sauce in a bowl and chill in the fridge.
4. Prepare Louie Sauce:
   • Mix mayo, homemade cocktail sauce, and chopped capers in another bowl. Chill in the fridge.
5. Poach the Shrimp:
   • Strain out the aromatics and vegetables from the poaching liquid and turn off the heat.
   • Add the shrimp to the liquid and let it poach for a few minutes in the residual heat.
   • Transfer the shrimp to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Tips on Making the Best Shrimp Cocktail

Here are a few tips on how to prepare this easy shrimp cocktail recipe:

• Select Quality Shrimp: Choose larger-sized, high-quality shrimp like jumbo or extra-large for better texture and presentation.
• Poach with Flavor: Ensure a flavorful poaching liquid by simmering with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and seasonings.
• Avoid Overcooking: Transfer shrimp to an ice bath as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Thoroughly Chill: Ensure the shrimp are completely cold before serving by refrigerating or placing them on a bed of ice.
• Presentation: Arrange shrimp on a platter with lemon wedges, fresh parsley, flaky salt, and cracked black pepper.
• Deveining Shrimp: If needed, devein shrimp before poaching.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust sauces before serving; add more horseradish or citrus for extra kick or balance flavors with sweetness or acidity.

How to Serve and Store Shrimp Cocktail

Here’s how to assemble this tasty seafood starter:

• Place a layer of ice (optional) in a large bowl or platter.
• Add small bowls of both sauces.
• Arrange the poached shrimp on the platter along with lemon wedges.
• Sprinkle on the flaky salt/ cracked black pepper mixture and garnish with fresh parsley.

Storing shrimp cocktail properly is crucial to maintain its freshness and flavors. Here’s how to properly store shrimp cocktail:

1. Refrigeration: If there are leftovers or if you’ve assembled the shrimp cocktail in advance, cover the platter tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C).
2. Separate Components: If possible, store the shrimp separately from the sauces and garnishes. This prevents the shrimp from becoming soggy due to contact with the sauces.
3. Consume Promptly: Shrimp cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. Consume it within 1-2 days for optimal taste and texture.
4. Avoid Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze shrimp cocktail as freezing can significantly alter the texture and quality of the shrimp and sauces.

More Shrimp to Love

• Easy Pasta Shrimp with Tomatoes
• Avocado Shrimp Salad
• Shrimp Rockefeller
• Crab Stuffed Shrimp
• Spicy Honey Shrimp with Brussels Sprouts

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WELCOME! My name is Melissa Latin aka. Charlotte Fashion Plate. Happy to meet you! I am more than just recipes. I love fashion and style too! Most importantly, I love my Family (my Hubby and my Fur Babies). My Husband (aka my “Kitchen Bitch”) means the world to me. He’s pretty damn cool too. Not only is he one of the nicest guys you will ever meet, he also has had a lengthy career in professional hockey. Not only winning two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins in the early ’90’s, but most recently winning the Calder Cup with the Charlotte Checkers, amongst many other accolades. If you live in Charlotte and play hockey, or have a family member who plays, be sure to contact him!

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