If you’re craving a zesty, fresh, and flavorful seafood appetizer, Mexican shrimp cocktail (Cóctel de Camarones) is the perfect dish to try. This vibrant recipe combines tender shrimp with a tangy, spicy tomato base and crunchy vegetables, creating a refreshing treat that’s ideal for warm weather or any festive occasion. Let’s dive into how to make this classic Mexican favorite step-by-step!
What Is Mexican Shrimp Cocktail?
Unlike the American shrimp cocktail served with a thick cocktail sauce, the Mexican version is more like a savory seafood gazpacho. It features cooked shrimp mixed with fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomato, onion, and avocado, all bathed in a tangy, slightly spicy tomato and clam juice broth. The cocktail is usually served chilled in tall glasses, garnished with shrimp tails, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro, sometimes sprinkled with Tajín seasoning for an extra kick.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a list of the key ingredients to make an authentic Mexican shrimp cocktail:
– Medium cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Clamato juice (a tomato and clam juice cocktail)
– Ketchup
– Fresh lime juice
– Red or white onion, diced
– Roma tomatoes, diced
– English cucumber, peeled and diced
– Celery, finely chopped
– Jalapeño or serrano pepper, seeded and chopped (adjust for heat preference)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped
– Avocado, diced
– Hot sauce (such as Mexican hot sauce or your favorite brand)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Optional: Tajín seasoning for garnish
– Lime wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Start by cooking your shrimp if they aren’t pre-cooked. You can boil them in water with onion chunks, garlic, salt, and pepper until just pink and opaque, about 1 minute, then drain and cool. For a smoky flavor, some also sauté shrimp with spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Once cooled, chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces, reserving some whole shrimp with tails for garnish.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
Dice the onion, tomatoes, cucumber, celery, and jalapeño into small, uniform pieces. Rinse diced onion under cold water to mellow its sharpness. Chop fresh cilantro and dice the avocado last to keep it fresh.
3. Make the Cocktail Sauce
In a large bowl, combine Clamato juice, ketchup, fresh lime juice, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a tangy, slightly spicy tomato base.
4. Combine Everything
Add the chopped shrimp and vegetables to the cocktail sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Fold in the diced avocado carefully to avoid mashing.
5. Chill and Serve
Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, spoon the shrimp cocktail into tall glasses or bowls. Garnish with whole shrimp, lime wedges, cilantro sprigs, and a sprinkle of Tajín seasoning if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Mexican Shrimp Cocktail
– Use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
– Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be just opaque and tender.
– Adjust the heat level by varying the amount or type of chili peppers used—poblano for mild, jalapeño for medium, serrano or extra hot sauce for spicy.
– Chill well before serving to enhance the refreshing qualities of the cocktail.
– Serve with saltine crackers, crispy tortilla chips, or tostadas for added crunch.
– For a smoky twist, add chipotle ketchup or a spoonful of adobo sauce from canned chipotles.
Variations to Try
– Mix in other seafood like cooked octopus, scallops, or crab for a seafood medley.
– Add diced jicama for extra crunch and sweetness.
– Rim your serving glasses with a chili-lime salt mixture for a festive presentation.
– Use tomato juice with garlic powder as a substitute if you don’t have Clamato juice.
Mexican shrimp cocktail is not only delicious but also quick to prepare—perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or party dish. Its balance of tangy, spicy, and fresh flavors makes it a standout in any meal.
Enjoy crafting this vibrant and tasty Mexican classic that’s sure to impress your family and friends!