Mouthwatering Ceviche Recipe: A Peruvian Specialty
Greetings foodies, today I am excited to share with you my personal recipe for the delicious, mouth-watering dish – ceviche! As a chef specializing in Brazilian and American cuisine, I have found that this dish has gained great popularity among both cultures. Ceviche is a traditional seafood dish enjoyed across Latin America and is famous for its light, refreshing flavors that are perfect for a hot summer day.
If you have never tried ceviche before, let me tell you, it’s an adventure for your taste buds. Fresh seafood marinated in citrus juices such as lime and lemon juice gives it a unique tangy flavor that differentiates it from any other seafood dishes you may have tried.
Ceviche recipes vary from one region to another, and even between restaurants. There are different types of seafood that can be used including shrimp, fish, crab or octopus. The mix of ingredients like cilantro, red bell peppers, and green onions give a variety of flavors and textures to the dish.
The best part about making ceviche is how simple it is to prepare. You only need to combine fresh seafood with citrus juices and some stunning flavours like cilantro and red onion. It’s so easy that anyone can try their hand at making ceviche!
So without further ado, I present to you my personal recipe for the mouth-watering dish called ceviche.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you craving something fresh, healthy, and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this ceviche recipe! Not only is it authentic and traditional, but it also offers a modern twist that will wow your taste buds.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can use a variety of seafood options such as tilapia, sea bass, scallops, prawns or even octopus depending on your taste preference. Plus, with the addition of mango, avocado or coconut, you can customize the dish to make it your own.
But what really sets this recipe apart is how quick and easy it is to prepare. With minimal cooking involved, you can have a delicious dish ready in just 30 minutes. Simply marinate the fish in citrus juices like lime and lemon to create an acid-based cooking environment that results in perfectly tender and flavorful bites.
Not only is this recipe tasty and easy to make, but it’s also a great option for those looking for a healthier meal. The addition of fresh vegetables like cilantro, green onions, and red bell pepper provides valuable nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests at your next gathering or whip up a quick weeknight meal, this ceviche recipe is sure to be a hit. So why not give it a try and treat yourself to some of the best ceviche you’ve ever tasted?
Ingredient List
Fresh Ingredients for a Refreshing Ceviche Recipe
Ceviche is a classic seafood dish from the coastal regions of Latin America. It typically features fresh fish or shellfish marinated in citrus juices, such as lime or lemon juice, and flavored with herbs and spices. To prepare this delicious dish, you will need the freshest seafood, and other zesty and flavorful ingredients that enhance the taste of the dish.
Here are the ingredients that you will need to prepare a tasty ceviche recipe:
- 1 pound fresh fish fillets, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
- 1/2 pound fresh scallops, patted dry and cut into small pieces
- 1/2 pound cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro leaves
- Juice of 3 limes and 2 medium lemons
- Salt to taste
Note: You can also use other seafood options like tilapia, sea bass, mahi-mahi, prawn, octopus, salmon or kingfish based on your preference.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, it’s time to get started on the fun part: making the ceviche. This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers who appreciate bold flavors and simple recipes. Follow these easy steps to make a delicious ceviche dish that will impress your guests and make you feel like a true culinary expert.
Step 1: Preparing and Cutting the Seafood
First up, the seafood prep. Begin by rinsing 1 pound of fresh scallops in cool water to remove any dirt or sand. Next, pat them dry with a paper towel before cutting each scallop into quarters. If you prefer a different type of seafood, such as shrimp or fish fillets, feel free to substitute them in this step.
Step 2: Marinating
For marinating the seafood, combine 1/2 cup fresh lime juice and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a bowl. Add the prepared scallops to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the mixture. Ensure that each scallop is fully submerged in the liquid to allow it to cook through properly. Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until the scallops have turned opaque.
Step 3: Preparing Vegetables
While your seafood marinates, begin prepping your vegetables. Finely chop 1 red bell pepper, 4 green onions, and 1/2 cup cilantro. Set aside until ready to mix with the cooked seafood.
Step 4: Mixing Ingredients
Once the seafood has finished marinating, remove it from the refrigerator and strain out any remaining marinade liquid. In a separate bowl, combine the marinated scallops with chopped vegetables prepared in step three.
Step 5: Serving
When you’re ready to serve your ceviche recipe, simply spoon it into individual bowls or glasses, garnished with additional cilantro, and lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your delicious seafood-ceviche dish!
Pro Tip: For a spicy kick, add a diced jalapeno pepper to the vegetable mix or spice it up more with chili pepper flakes.
Substitutions and Variations
Looking to switch things up and add some variety to your ceviche recipe? Here are some ingredient substitutions and variations for a delicious twist on this classic dish:
– Try using different types of seafood: while scallops, shrimp, and white fish are common choices for traditional ceviche, don’t be afraid to experiment with other types of seafood such as squid, octopus, or even crab. Each seafood has its own unique flavor profile that can add some extra depth to your ceviche.
– Add some fruit: Mango, pineapple, and avocado are just a few examples of fruits that pair well with seafood flavors. Adding some diced mango or avocado to your ceviche can give it a sweet and creamy contrast that is sure to impress.
– Mix it up with herbs: Not everyone is a fan of cilantro, so trying substitute it with other fresh herbs such as parsley or basil can add a different dimension to the dish.
– Increase the heat: If you like spicy food, try adding in some finely chopped jalapeno peppers or red pepper flakes. This will kick up the heat of the dish while still allowing you to taste all the other flavors.
– Use different citrus juices: While lime juice is an integral part of any classic ceviche recipe, you can experiment with other citrus juices such as lemon or grapefruit. Each option provides a different level of acidity and sweetness which will impact the final taste of your dish.
In summary, there are many ways to tailor your ceviche recipe based on your personal preferences or what’s available in your kitchen. Be creative and play around with different ingredients to find your perfect combination.
Serving and Pairing
Now that we have prepared our impeccable ceviche, let’s talk serving and pairing. A freshly made ceviche is the perfect appetizer to serve at any gathering or dinner party – it’s light, refreshing and a great conversation starter.
To serve, divide the ceviche into small bowls or glasses using a slotted spoon to scoop up the fish and vegetables. You can also serve it on a plate with some colorful garnishes for that extra pop of color.
When it comes to pairing your ceviche dish, you can’t go wrong with crispy tortilla chips, toasted bread or crackers. You can also serve it with crunchy plantain chips or sweet potato fries for added texture and flavor.
For drinks, consider serving this dish with a cold beer or a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or Albariño. If you’re looking for something non-alcoholic, try pairing it with a fruity agua fresca or a classic limeade.
In terms of presentation, I recommend adding an extra sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro and green onions on top of each serving for that finishing touch. Your guests will appreciate the effort you put in to make the best possible ceviche recipe!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
As much as ceviche is an easy dish to whip up and serve, many occasions may call for making it ahead or storing leftovers to enjoy later. Fortunately, the flavors of this dish don’t diminish or change much over time.
To make-ahead, marinate your fish and seafood in the refrigerator for at most 24 hours before finishing with the citrus juice before service. This method is perfect for busy hosts who want to get ahead of their prep work for their event but not compromise on the quality or freshness of their food.
If you do have leftovers, then transfer them into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for no more than 1-2 days. You can also add chopped avocado, diced mango, or coconut cream to revamp leftovers into a refreshing salad or have them as toppings on crackers or toast.
One thing to note is that ceviche should never be reheated as doing so could cause the raw seafoods’ texture and flavor profile turn unappetizing. Simply let it come to room temperature before enjoying if stored in the fridge.
Overall, ceviche offers a versatile dish option to anyone who wants to impress guests with intricate flavors while keeping it healthy, fresh, and fine dining worthy in a snap.
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you know how to make a delicious ceviche, let me share with you some tips to ensure perfect results every time.
1. Use fresh ingredients: The key ingredient in any great ceviche recipe is fresh seafood. Make sure you buy the freshest fish or shellfish available and use it the same day if possible.
2. Don’t overmarinate: While it’s important to marinate the seafood in citrus juices, don’t overdo it. Over-marinating can turn your fish into mush and ruin the texture of your dish. A good rule of thumb is to marinate for no longer than 30 minutes to an hour.
3. Cut in uniform pieces: When preparing your fish or shellfish, make sure to cut them into uniform pieces so they all cook evenly.
4. Adjust seasoning: Taste test your ceviche before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more lime juice, salt or even a pinch of sugar until the flavor suits your taste buds.
5. Use high quality citrus juices: Since ceviche relies heavily on citrus juices, be sure to use high-quality, freshly squeezed versions such as lime, lemon or even a combination of both. This will enhance the flavor and freshness of your ingredients.
6. Chill well before serving: Ceviche is best served cold, so make sure to chill it well before serving. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving, or until the fish has turned white and has been fully “cooked” by the citrus juices.
By following these simple tips, you can prepare a perfect and flavorful ceviche every time!
FAQ
Now that you know how to make a delicious and fresh ceviche, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions. Whether you’re new to making ceviche or a seasoned pro, these FAQs will help you perfect your dish and bring it to new levels of flavor.
What is ceviche usually made of?
When it comes to ceviche, the three key components are the raw fish, citrus juice, and seasoning. Out of these, the raw fish is undoubtedly the most critical element. To ensure that your dish is both fresh and delectable, it is best to purchase your fish from a reputable fishmonger or the fish counter at a trusted grocery store.
How long should ceviche be marinated?
Achieving the perfect texture and flavor in ceviche highly relies on the marinating time. It is crucial to consider the size of the fish chunks to determine the appropriate marinating time, typically ranging from 30 minutes to an hour. While extending it to two hours is acceptable, going beyond that results in a pickled fish-like taste instead of the exquisite ceviche goodness.
What fish is best for ceviche?
The fundamental ingredient for your ceviche is a lean white fish that has a firm or semi-firm texture. Ideal options include bass, grouper, rockfish and sole. If you’re uncertain about which type of fish to select, don’t hesitate to request suggestions from your seafood vendor.
How long can ceviche sit in lime juice?
When you make ceviche, it’s important to store it in the refrigerator and consume it within two days since the acidic marinade can help preserve it for that long. Keep in mind though that the texture of the fish will keep changing while in the fridge as the acid in the citrus juice continues to break down the protein. Therefore, it’s not advisable to attempt to reuse any leftover ceviche.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this ceviche recipe is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a refreshing yet flavorful meal. With its mix of tangy citrus juices, fresh seafood, and crisp vegetables, it’s sure to satisfy any craving for seafood. Whether you’re making it as a hearty appetizer or a light lunch, this ceviche recipe has something for everyone.
But don’t be afraid to experiment! Swap out the seafood with your favorite variety, add in some fruit like mango or pineapple, or even try using coconut milk instead of lime juice for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless!
So go ahead and give this ceviche recipe a try – I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. Plus, it’s healthy, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion from casual gatherings to fine dining. What are you waiting for? Get your ingredients together and start making your own delicious and authentic ceviche today!
Ceviche Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh scallops (or any combination of scallops, shrimp, conch, Ahi tuna, flounder or other white fish)
- 1 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 large pinch salt
- 1 jalapeno, minced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 6 green onions, trimmed and sliced (or 1/4 cup red onion)
- 3 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Dice the fish into 1/2-inch chunks. In a large glass or ceramic bowl, combine lime juice and salt. Stir to mix. Add fish or shellfish, cover the mixture and let it rest in the refrigerator for one hour.
- Drain away lime juice and mix in remaining ingredients. Adjust seasonings if necessary and refrigerate until time to serve. Ceviche should be served the same day for the best flavor.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Dora
Dora is a chef well-versed in Brazilian and American cuisine. After a hard day's work in the kitchen of her restaurant, she finds the time to jot down recipes for her food blog. Her recipes are sure to delight foodies everywhere, as she strives to make each one unique and enjoyable to read.