Appetizer > Seafood Appetizers > Prawn Appetizers

Spicy Prawn Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound cooked and peeled prawns
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup hot sauce
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced cucumber
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Serving glasses or bowls

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ketchup, hot sauce, lime juice, cilantro, red onion, celery, and cucumber. Mix well.
2. Add the cooked and peeled prawns to the mixture and toss until the prawns are coated evenly.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. When ready to serve, divide the prawn cocktail mixture among serving glasses or bowls.
6. Garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Temperature:
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serving size:
This recipe serves 4 people.

Nutritional information:
Calories: 190
Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 28g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- If you don't have hot sauce, you can use chili flakes or cayenne pepper instead.
- You can substitute the cilantro with parsley or basil.
- If you don't have red onion, you can use white onion or shallots instead.
- You can substitute the prawns with cooked shrimp or crab meat.

Variations:
- For a milder version, reduce the amount of hot sauce.
- You can add diced avocado or mango for a tropical twist.
- You can add diced jalapenos for an extra kick of heat.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don't overcook the prawns, as they can become tough and rubbery.
- You can make the cocktail sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Storage instructions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
This dish is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the prawn cocktail in a clear glass to showcase the colorful ingredients.

Garnishes:
Garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges.

Pairings:
This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of tortilla chips or crackers.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cocktail sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or lime juice to thin it out.
- If the prawns are overcooked, they can become tough and rubbery.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to properly cook and store the prawns to prevent foodborne illness.

Food history:
Prawn cocktail is a classic British dish that became popular in the 1960s.

Flavor profiles:
This dish is sweet, spicy, and tangy.

Serving suggestions:
Serve as an appetizer or light lunch.

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Taste: Spicy, Tangy, Savory, Creamy, Zesty