Ceviche Recipe
Ceviche is a fresh, tangy dish that captures the vibrant flavors of seafood mixed with zesty citrus and colorful vegetables. Perfect for a light meal or as a refreshing appetizer, ceviche is cherished in many coastal cuisines around the world. This recipe introduces you to an easy way to make your own ceviche at home, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness whenever you like!
Why Make This Recipe
Making ceviche at home is rewarding and fun. Not only is it a healthy option, packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, but it also offers a burst of flavor that excites the palate. The combination of fresh seafood and citrus juices creates a unique taste that brings a touch of the beach to your kitchen. Plus, you can adjust the ingredients to your liking, making it your very own signature dish!
How to Make Ceviche
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh raw white fish or shrimp (snapper, tilapia, cod, or shrimp), diced
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 8–10 limes)
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 small cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced
Directions:
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Prepare the seafood: Start by placing the diced fish or shrimp in a glass or ceramic bowl. Pour the lime and lemon juice over the seafood, making sure it is completely covered. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour until the seafood turns opaque.
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Drain and mix: After marinating, drain most of the citrus juice from the bowl, keeping a little for flavor. Add the red onion, jalapeño, tomatoes, cilantro, and the cucumber if you are using it. Gently stir everything together.
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Season and finish: Add salt and pepper to taste. Just before serving, carefully fold in the diced avocado to avoid mashing it.
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Serve chilled: Spoon your delicious ceviche into bowls and enjoy it with crispy tortilla chips, tostadas, or on lettuce cups for a vibrant meal. For an extra zesty kick, serve with lime wedges!
How to Serve Ceviche
Ceviche is best served chilled. You can place it in small bowls as an appetizer or serve it as a main dish. It pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or can be placed on tostadas. You can also serve it on a bed of crisp lettuce for a refreshing touch.
How to Store Ceviche
Ceviche is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for about 1-2 days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Be aware that the longer it sits, the more the seafood continues to "cook" in the citrus, which may change its texture.
Tips to Make Ceviche
- Use fresh seafood to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of lime and lemon juice according to your taste preference.
- For added texture and crunch, include diced cucumber and serve with tortilla chips.
- Experiment with different types of fish or seafood to find your favorite combination!
Variation
You can customize your ceviche by adding different ingredients. Try including mango, pineapple, or even a dash of coconut milk for a tropical twist. You might also consider adding other herbs like mint or dill for a unique flavor.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen fish for ceviche?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen fish, but make sure to thaw it completely and ensure it’s safe to eat raw.
Q2: Is ceviche safe to eat?
A2: Yes, ceviche is safe to eat if made with fresh fish and prepared properly. The acidity from the citrus juices “cooks” the seafood.
Q3: How long should I marinate the seafood for ceviche?
A3: Marinate the seafood for 30 minutes to 1 hour for the best flavor and texture.
Enjoy preparing and savoring your homemade ceviche! It’s a delightful dish full of flavor and perfect for any occasion.
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