Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Here’s a simple and flavorful recipe for Mexican Shrimp Cocktail (Cóctel de Camarón). This dish is refreshing, zesty, and perfect as a light meal or appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cooked shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup tomato juice
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1-2 serrano or jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped (adjust based on desired spice level)
• 1 medium cucumber, peeled, seeded, and chopped into small cubes
• 1/2 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup diced celery (optional, for added crunch)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Tobasco sauce or Valentina hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)
• Tortilla chips or saltine crackers, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: If not already done, peel and devein the shrimp. Boil or steam them until just cooked (about 3-4 minutes), then cool them in ice water. Chop the shrimp into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ketchup, tomato juice, lime juice, and cilantro. Stir to combine.
3. Add the Vegetables and Heat: Stir in the chopped onion, serrano or jalapeño peppers, cucumber, avocado, and celery (if using). Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer more heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce.
4. Combine with Shrimp: Add the chopped shrimp to the sauce mixture and stir gently to combine everything evenly.
5. Chill: Cover and refrigerate the shrimp cocktail for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve: Serve in individual bowls, garnished with extra cilantro if desired. Serve with tortilla chips or crackers on the side for dipping.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, you can add a splash of Clamato (tomato-clam juice).
• If you want a more authentic Mexican touch, serve the shrimp cocktail in a large glass or cocktail cup.
• You can also add a bit of ketchup and lime juice at the end to adjust the sweetness and tanginess before serving.

Enjoy your refreshing Mexican Shrimp Cocktail!