Classic Shrimp Cocktail Recipe - by Koji Cooks

CLASSIC SHRIMP COCKTAIL

The renowned shrimp cocktail is a delightful dish that many of us have enjoyed frequently. When prepared correctly, it serves as a perfect classic starter. It's easy to make and assemble in advance, and it consistently satisfies. We prepare them often. The quality of the shrimp is crucial (avoid precooked rubbery ones), and larger shrimp are preferable; we use size 16/20. My recipe includes a classic cocktail sauce along with a dash of Kewpie Mayo.

CLASSIC SHRIMP COCKTAIL - Recipe (serves 4)

SHRIMP

1 pound of cleaned 16/20 shrimp, shell removed.

4 cups of water

3 tablespoons of sake or white wine

2 teaspoons of sugar

1 teaspoon of kosher salt

METHOD

In a medium-sized pot, mix the water, sake, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a rapid simmer over medium-high heat, then add the shrimp and cook for 4 minutes. Drain the shrimp and immediately submerge them in iced water. Once the shrimp are cold, drain them again and refrigerate.

COCKTAIL SAUCE - Recipe (maakes 1/2 cup)

1/2 cup ketchup

2 teaspoons prepared horseradish

1 teaspoon of sugar

1 teaspoon seasoned rice vinegar

6 dashes of hot sauce - optional

METHOD

Mix sauce ingredients in a small bowl and refrigerate.

SALAD + GARNISHES

12 cleaned Boston lettuce leaves, sliced in 1/2" strips

16 grape tomatoes halved.

4 lemon wedges

2 tablespoons of Kewpie mayo

Oyster crackers

ASSEMBLY

Place a bed of lettuce in shrimp cocktail or martini glasses, elegantly position 4-5 shrimp to one side, sprinkle with tomatoes, add a spoonful of sauce, drizzle with kewpie mayo, and top with some oyster crackers.