Recipe: Spicy Pickled Shrimp

Preparation

1. In a heavy pot with a lid, combine the celery, bay leaves, peppercorns and salt. Add 2 cups water.
2. Bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer 5 minutes. Add the shrimp; re-cover the pot and bring stock back to a boil. Lower heat and simmer 3 minutes or until pink.
3. Remove from heat and uncover. Let shrimp cool in the stock.
4. When cool enough to handle, peel shrimp, returning to the stock until ready to pickle the shrimp.
5. PICKLING INSTRUCTIONS:
6. In large bowl, place a layer of boiled shrimp. On top, place 4 bay leaves and half of the slices of one onion. Continue doing this, layer upon layer, until all shrimp are used.
7. Mix remaining ingredients and pour over the shrimp.
8. Cover bowl and set aside, stirring occasionally.
9. After 12 hours, taste shrimp and adjust seasoning. If too tart, add more sugar.
10. Serve arranged on a serving platter or bowl.