Coctel de camarones, also known as cocktail de camarón or shrimp cocktail, is a Mexican appetizer made with cooked and peeled shrimp, diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, avocado, and a tomato-based sauce. It is typically served chilled in a small glass or bowl, and is often garnished with additional cilantro and lime wedges.

The origins of coctel de camarones are somewhat unclear, but it is thought to have originated in the Mexican state of Sinaloa, where seafood is abundant. It is now a popular dish throughout Mexico and is often served at Mexican restaurants and special events.

To make coctel de camarones, the first step is to cook and peel the shrimp. This can be done by boiling the shrimp in a pot of salted water for 2-3 minutes, or by grilling or sautéing the shrimp until they are pink and opaque. Once the shrimp are cooked and cooled, they can be peeled and diced into small pieces.

Next, the diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and avocado are mixed together in a large bowl. Some variations of the recipe may also include diced cucumber, jalapeño peppers, or other vegetables. The tomato-based sauce is then added to the bowl, along with the lime juice and a pinch of salt and pepper. The ingredients are mixed together until they are well combined.

The coctel de camarones can then be refrigerated for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. This step is important because it allows the flavors of the shrimp, vegetables, and sauce to blend together and intensify.

When it is time to serve the coctel de camarones, the mixture is spooned into small glasses or bowls. It is then garnished with additional cilantro and lime wedges, and served with chips or crackers for dipping, if desired.

Coctel de camarones is a refreshing and flavorful appetizer that is perfect for a summer gathering or as a starter at a Mexican-themed dinner party. It is easy to make and can be customized with your choice of vegetables and sauce to suit your personal taste. Whether you are a fan of seafood or just looking for a new appetizer to try, coctel de camarones is definitely worth a try!

Here is a detailed recipe for coctel de camarones:

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound cooked and peeled shrimp
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup diced onions
  • 1/2 cup diced avocado
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 cup tomato sauce
  • juice of 1 lime
  • salt and pepper, to taste
  • chips or crackers, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked and peeled shrimp, diced tomatoes, diced onions, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
  2. Add the tomato sauce and lime juice to the bowl and mix well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. To serve, spoon the coctel de camarón into small glasses or bowls. Garnish with additional cilantro, if desired, and serve with chips or crackers for dipping, if desired.
What accompanies coctel de camarones?

There are several options for what to eat with coctel de camarones. Here are a few ideas:

  1. Chips or crackers: Coctel de camarones is often served with chips or crackers for dipping. Corn chips, tortilla chips, or pita chips are all good options.
  2. Bread: Toasted or grilled bread is a tasty option for dipping into the tomato-based sauce in coctel de camarones. French bread, baguette, or crostini are all good choices.
  3. Vegetables: Raw vegetables such as carrot sticks, celery, or bell peppers make a healthy and crunchy accompaniment to coctel de camarones.
  4. Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing pairs well with the flavors of coctel de camarones.
  5. Rice or grains: A side of rice or grains such as quinoa or farro complements the flavors of coctel de camarones and adds some additional substance to the meal.

Ultimately, the choice of what to eat with coctel de camarones will depend on your personal preferences and what you have available. Experiment with different options to see what you like best!

Categorized in: