Perfect Boiled Shrimp

Recipe adapted from Emeril's.com

~from Savoring Time in the Kitchen

1 large lemon, halved

4 quarts water

2 bay leaves

2 teaspoons salt

1/2 teaspoon cayenne

2 tablespoons Old Bay Seasoning

2 pounds jumbo shrimp in the shell (16-20 count)

Squeeze the juice from the lemon into a large pot and add the halves to the pot. Add the water, bay leaves, salt, cayenne, and Old Bay Seasoning. Bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to mingle.  Add the shrimp. Return to a boil and then immediately remove the pan from the heat. Cover, and let stand for 4.  Scoop shrimp out place in a an ice bath to stop the cooking for 1 minute.  Remove and serve with your favorite cocktail sauce and plenty of napkins!

Yield: 4 servings