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Cold Boiled Shrimp

Cold Boiled Shrimp

Are you ready to impress your guests with a restaurant-quality appetizer that's surprisingly simple to make? Our Cold Boiled Shrimp recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines succulent seafood, zesty seasoning, and a touch of culinary magic. Whether you're hosting a summer party, planning a quick elegant starter, or craving a protein-packed snack, this recipe will elevate your cooking game and have everyone asking for your secret!

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Appetizer
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

  1. 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  2. 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
  3. 1 lemon, sliced
  4. Cocktail sauce for serving

Instructions

  1. Fill a large pot with water, leaving enough room to prevent overflow when adding shrimp. Add Old Bay seasoning and lemon slices to the water to create a flavorful poaching liquid.
  2. Bring the seasoned water to a rolling boil over high heat. The water should be vigorously bubbling and steaming.
  3. Carefully add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the boiling water. Ensure they are spread out and not overcrowded to allow even cooking.
  4. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make the shrimp tough and rubbery.
  5. Immediately remove the shrimp from the boiling water using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a large bowl filled with ice water. This stops the cooking process and helps maintain a crisp texture.
  6. Let the shrimp chill in the ice bath for 2-3 minutes, then drain thoroughly in a colander.
  7. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  8. Arrange the chilled shrimp on a serving platter, garnish with additional lemon slices if desired, and serve with cocktail sauce on the side.

Tips

  1. Choose Fresh Shrimp: Always select high-quality, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
  2. Don't Overcook: The key to tender shrimp is precise cooking time. 2-3 minutes is the sweet spot - any longer and they'll become tough.
  3. Ice Bath is Crucial: The ice water bath immediately stops the cooking process and helps maintain a crisp, tender texture.
  4. Season Generously: Old Bay seasoning adds incredible flavor, but you can experiment with other seafood seasonings.
  5. Drain Thoroughly: Pat the shrimp completely dry to prevent watery cocktail sauce and ensure a perfect presentation.
  6. Serve Chilled: These shrimp are best served cold, making them a perfect make-ahead appetizer for parties and gatherings.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 150kcal

Carbohydrates: 5g

Protein: 25g

Fat: 2g

Saturated Fat: g

Cholesterol: 200mg

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