
Vuelve a la Vida (Seafood Cocktail "Back to Life")
Spicy mixed seafood cocktail, famous for "reviving" anyone.
About this recipe
Vuelve a la Vida is a mixed seafood cocktail from Veracruz combining shrimp, squid, oyster and crab in a spicy tomato sauce.
History & Origin
Vuelve a la Vida is one of Mexico's most famous and popular seafood cocktails, originating from the port of Veracruz. Its name is no coincidence: according to popular tradition, this dish has revitalising powers thanks to the combination of fresh seafood, citrus and spice, being the perfect remedy for a hangover after a night of jarocho partying. On the Veracruz malecón, seafood stalls serve Vuelve a la Vida in large glasses or goblets, mixing cooked shrimp, squid, fresh oysters, shredded crab and sometimes scallops. The sauce combines ketchup, hot sauce, lime juice, Worcestershire sauce and a touch of habanero salsa. The result is an explosion of flavours between sweet, sour, spicy and marine.
Estimated cost
$10.20
Total cost
$2.55
Per serving
* Approximate prices based on US supermarkets
Nutritional information per serving
280
Calories
30g
Protein
22g
Carbohydrates
5g
Fat
2g
Fiber
600mg
Sodium
* Approximate values. May vary depending on ingredients used.
Method
- 1
Cook the shrimp and squid in salted water for 3-5 minutes. Cool in iced water. Slice the squid into rings.

- 2
Shred the crab, removing cartilage. Clean the fresh oysters.

- 3
Prepare the sauce: mix ketchup, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lime juice and salt.

- 4
Combine all the seafood with the chopped onion and cilantro.

- 5
Pour the sauce over the seafood. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

- 6
Serve in large glasses with crackers and avocado.

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Founder, Recetas Mexas
Mexican from Puebla, IT professional and foodie. Author of 1000+ authentic Mexican recipes adapted for European kitchens. Based in Madrid since 2018.
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