Basic Shrimp

2 quarts heavily-salted water
2 bay leaves
5 whole cloves
1 large celery rib, coarsely chopped
1 clove garlic, halved
Tabasco sauce
Pinch of thyme
Pinch of basil

Put shrimp in COLD water containing all of the above ingredients. Bring to a boil, then turn off the heat. Shrimp are ready when bright pink.