Based on the provided content, here’s an analysis of the availability of shrimp cocktail in jars:
Yes, you can still buy shrimp cocktail in a jar, though it’s less common than in past decades. Here’s what you need to know
Where to Find It
- Specialty food stores
- Online retailers like Dean & DeLuca and igourmet.com
- Sau-Sea brand (available through their website)
- Amazon Fresh (16 oz cocktail shrimp with sauce)
- Select grocery stores and specialty markets
Current Market Status
- Major grocery chains (Kroger, Safeway, Albertsons, Winn-Dixie) generally no longer stock it
- Prices range from $15-25 per jar
- Limited availability compared to its peak popularity in the 1950s-60s
- Some major brands like Bumble Bee and Chicken of the Sea have discontinued their jarred versions
Alternative Options:
- Make your own using:
- Fresh sustainably-caught shrimp
- Homemade cocktail sauce (ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce)
- Mason jars for serving
- Try premium versions like St. Elmo’s Shrimp Cocktail, which includes:
- Black Tiger Shrimp
- Signature spicy cocktail sauce
- Professional packaging and shipping
The product maintains a loyal following due to nostalgia, though it’s evolved from its original form when Sau-Sea pioneered it in 1948. While not as ubiquitous as in past decades, jarred shrimp cocktail continues to be available through select retailers and specialty food providers.
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- Cream cheese – Serves as the base of this creamy dip. Use regular cream cheese for the best texture and consistency. Reduced-fat cream cheese can make this dip too thin and liquidy.
- Cocktail sauce – Bottled cocktail sauce brings tons of flavor to the dip. Use your favorite bottled cocktail sauce. We especially love Heinz Zesty Cocktail Sauce.
- Small shrimp – Purchase frozen cooked extra-small or small shrimp that have been peeled and deveined. Then simply thaw and coarsely chop to stir into the dip.
BEST SHRIMP COCKTAIL for the holidays (don’t buy it from the store)
FAQ
Is Sau Sea still in business?
We at Sau-Sea take pride in what we do and continue to strive to provide the best in quality and service, just as we have done for nearly 70 years.
Is grocery store shrimp cocktail safe?
The shrimp cocktail sold at your local store is actually pre-cooked and ready-to-go. If you’re squeamish about raw seafood and feeling skeptical, just look at the color. If shrimp is pink or rosy white, it’s been cooked, while raw shrimp range from translucent gray to brown and have a slick texture.
How long will shrimp cocktail stay good in the refrigerator?
Shrimp cocktail is most delicious the same day it’s made, but cooked shrimp will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Store in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic for best results.
What is the best way to buy shrimp for shrimp cocktail?
Buy them deveined but uncooked. Easy-peel or already peeled is fine. If they’re peeled, make sure they still have their tails. Those make the handles for your shrimp cocktail and you don’t want to skip that!