The original recipe hailed from my mother’s cousin’s eatery, Match, nestled in the heart of Norwalk, Connecticut. I distinctly remember the day we ventured to pay a visit when I was a young child. Our gracious host treated us to an appetizer that left an indelible mark on our taste buds. Imagine a fusion of deconstructed shrimp cocktail and zesty ceviche, elegantly presented with crispy wonton chips—a true culinary masterpiece that left us craving for more. It was a flavor explosion that lingered long after our visit had ended.
The dish was so captivating that we were determined to replicate it upon returning home. Over time, our family has honed and refined the recipe to perfection. What makes it truly remarkable is its simplicity and versatility. No fancy cooking skills or specialized equipment are required. This dish effortlessly accommodates personal preferences and the ingredients available in your pantry.
Believe me when I tell you that preparing this dish is a breeze—you can have it ready to serve in just 10 minutes flat. Talk about a convenient last-minute savior for unexpected guests or impromptu gatherings.
It all begins with a humble bag of shrimp. While you can opt to cook raw shrimp by boiling them in water, seafood stock, or seasoned water, I find that using pre-cooked, peeled, and deveined large shrimp from the freezer works just as well. Simply thaw the shrimp and chop them into bite-sized pieces before placing them in a large mixing bowl.
Next, enhance the dish with a medley of fresh veggies for added texture. I typically include a quarter cup of minced red onion or thinly sliced scallions, along with an equal amount of diced cucumber. Feel free to experiment with ingredients like bell peppers or celery based on your preferences and what’s available in your fridge. The key is to introduce elements that provide a satisfying crunch and a burst of freshness.
The star of the show is the cocktail sauce, which adds a burst of flavor to the dish. Pour in approximately a cup of your favorite brand of cocktail sauce or opt for a homemade version. However, in keeping with the tradition of many of our family recipes on Allrecipes, precise measurements are not essential—let your instincts guide you. I like to elevate the cocktail sauce with a dash of horseradish for a hint of spiciness. Additionally, a touch of Bloody Mary mix or a few dashes of Worcestershire sauce can work wonders. Squeeze the juice of a fresh lemon into the mixture and give it a good stir. And just like that, the magic is ready to unfold.
I prefer to serve this delectable creation with pita chips, although it pairs wonderfully with saltine crackers, reminiscent of the Mexican shrimp cocktail style. While tortilla chips are an option, I recommend using a sturdier cracker that can withstand hearty scoops without crumbling.
