Description: The Dublin Prawn Cocktail is a classic Irish appetizer that brings together the freshness of prawns (shrimp) with a zesty cocktail sauce. Typically served with a bed of crisp lettuce, this dish is a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (for blanching prawns, if needed)
Serving size: 4 Servings
Ingredients:
For the Cocktail Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Prawn Cocktail:
- 16 large prawns (shrimp), peeled and deveined
- Salt, for seasoning prawns
- 4 large leaves of iceberg lettuce, washed and dried
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
Begin by blanching the prawns (shrimp): Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the prawns and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and are cooked through. Drain and let them cool. Once cooled, refrigerate them.
In a small bowl, prepare the cocktail sauce. Combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Adjust the hot sauce to your desired level of spiciness.
To assemble the prawn cocktail, place a lettuce leaf in the bottom of four serving glasses or dishes.
Add four prawns on top of the lettuce in each glass.
Spoon the cocktail sauce generously over the prawns.
Garnish with lemon wedges.
Serve immediately and enjoy your Dublin Prawn Cocktail!
This classic Irish appetizer is a favorite for its refreshing taste and simple preparation. It’s an ideal starter for any meal or as part of a seafood-themed dinner.