Ingredients:

  • 2 quarts water
  • 1/4 cup Old Bay Seasoning
  • 1 large lemon, halved
  • 3 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2 dried bay leaves
  • 1 tbsp kosher salt
  • 1 lb large shrimp (16/20 count), raw, deveined

Instructions:

  1. Fill a large stockpot with 2 quarts of water. Squeeze the lemon halves into the water and drop the rinds in. Add the garlic, bay leaves, kosher salt, and Old Bay seasoning.
  2. Bring the liquid to a rolling boil over high heat. Allow the aromatics to boil for 2 minutes to infuse the water.
  3. Carefully add the shrimp to the boiling water.
  4. Monitor the shrimp closely. Boil for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink, become opaque, and form a gentle 'C' shape.
  5. Immediately remove the shrimp using a spider strainer or slotted spoon and plunge them into a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
  6. Once chilled, drain the shrimp in a colander and pat dry before serving.