The classic shrimp cocktail has a rich and interesting history, evolving over time to become a popular appetizer in many parts of the world.

The concept of cold, poached shrimp served with a sauce dates back to the early 19th century. However, the dish as we know it today started gaining popularity in the early 20th century.

The shrimp cocktail became particularly popular in the United States during the 1920s Prohibition era. It was often served in speakeasies, where the spiciness of the cocktail sauce was used to mask the flavor of poorly distilled or bootleg alcohol.

Its popularity soared in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States. This was partly due to the increased availability of shrimp, which had become more accessible due to advancements in refrigeration and transportation.

Shrimp cocktail has been seen as a symbol of celebration and sophistication. It’s often associated with festive occasions and is a staple at many holiday gatherings, including Christmas.

In Las Vegas, shrimp cocktail became synonymous with the city’s glamorous casino culture. It was often used as a loss leader to attract customers into casinos.

While the classic version remains popular, many cultures have added their own twist to the dish. This includes variations in the type of sauce used and the method of preparing the shrimp.

Chefs around the world have experimented with the shrimp cocktail, adding gourmet ingredients and creating more sophisticated versions of the classic recipe.

The shrimp cocktail continues to be a beloved dish due to its simplicity, elegance, and the delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Whether served in a high-end restaurant or as part of a family gathering, it retains its status as a timeless and versatile appetizer.

INGREDIENTS

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound jumbo shrimp, shell on, deveined
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1 small onion, quartered
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 stalk celery, chopped
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, smashed
• 10 whole peppercorns
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sea salt

For the Cocktail Sauce:

• 1 cup high-quality ketchup
• 3 tablespoons prepared horseradish, or to taste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Tabasco hot sauce
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives

DIRECTIONS

1. Combine water, white wine, onion, carrot, celery, lemon slices, garlic, peppercorns, thyme, bay leaves, apple cider vinegar, and salt in a large pot. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 30 minutes to infuse the flavors.
2. Peel the shrimp, leaving tails on. Arrange on a platter with the cocktail sauce.
3. Garnish with additional dill, chives, and lemon wedges.
4. Serve this gourmet version of Shrimp Cocktail as a standout appetizer for your Christmas celebration.
5. Bring the broth to a boil and then reduce to a simmer.
6. Add the shrimp and poach until they are pink and opaque, about 2-4 minutes depending on size.
7. Transfer shrimp to a bowl of ice water to cool quickly.
8. Mix ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, Old Bay seasoning, black pepper, dill, and chives in a bowl.
9. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.

This enhanced recipe, with its additional aromatics and herbs, offers a sophisticated and flavorful twist on the classic Shrimp Cocktail

CLASSIC SHRIMP COCKTAIL RECIPE BY SIXTO CARREON