What Is Ceviche? Ingredients, Preparation, And Recipe
By Lisa Bot | Published 31 July 2024
What Is Ceviche?
Ceviche is a fresh and tangy seafood dish that originated in Peru. It’s made from raw fish or seafood that is marinated in citrus juices, typically lime or lemon.
The acid in the citrus juice "cooks" the fish, giving it a firm texture and an opaque appearance. This dish is popular in many Latin American countries, each adding their own twist.
Ingredients Needed For Ceviche
To make ceviche, you’ll need a few basic ingredients:
- Fish: Fresh, high-quality fish is the main ingredient in ceviche. In Australian, the best fish for ceviche includes barramundi, snapper, kingfish, or flathead. Make sure it’s sashimi-grade to ensure safety.
- Citrus Juice: Lime juice is most commonly used, but lemon juice works well too. The acidity of the juice cures the fish.
- Onions: Red onions add a nice crunch and flavour.
- Coriander: Fresh coriander or cilantro gives ceviche its distinctive taste.
- Peppers: Jalapeños or serranos add a bit of heat.
- Optional Additions: Avocado, tomatoes, cucumbers, and corn can be added for extra flavour and texture.
How To Prepare Ceviche
Here’s a simple way to prepare ceviche at home:
- Prepare the Fish: Start by cutting the fish into small, bite-sized pieces. Make sure to use a sharp knife to keep the fish intact.
- Marinate the Fish: Place the fish in a bowl and cover it with fresh lime or lemon juice. Ensure all the fish is submerged in the juice. Let it marinate in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes until the fish turns opaque.
- Add Vegetables and Herbs: While the fish is marinating, finely chop the red onion, coriander, and peppers. If you’re using tomatoes, cucumbers, or avocado, chop them as well.
- Combine Ingredients: Once the fish is ready, drain some of the excess citrus juice and mix in the chopped vegetables and herbs. Add salt to taste.
- Serve Immediately: Ceviche is best served fresh. Enjoy it with tortilla chips, on tostadas, or simply on its own.
Tips For Making The Perfect Ceviche
Use Fresh Fish: The freshness of the fish is crucial for both flavour and safety. Always use sashimi-grade fish.
Balance the Flavours: Ensure you have the right balance of acidity, salt, and spice. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
Serve Fresh: Ceviche is best eaten soon after it’s made. The longer it sits, the more the fish continues to cook in the citrus juice, which can affect the texture.
Easy Ceviche Recipe
Here’s how to make ceviche at home.
Ingredients:
- 500g sashimi-grade fish (barramundi, snapper, kingfish, or flathead)
- 1 cup fresh lime juice (about 6-8 limes)
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh coriander, chopped
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1 cucumber, diced (optional)
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Cut the fish into small, bite-sized pieces and place in a bowl.
- Pour the lime juice over the fish, making sure it’s fully covered. Let it marinate in the fridge for 15-30 minutes.
- Drain excess lime juice from the fish.
- Add the chopped onion, jalapeño, coriander, tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado to the fish. Mix gently.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips or on tostadas.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Using Low-Quality Fish: Always use high-quality, fresh fish to ensure the best flavour and safety.
Over-Marinating the Fish: Marinating for too long can make the fish too tough. Aim for 15-30 minutes.
Not Balancing Flavours: Ensure you taste as you go and adjust the lime juice, salt, and spice to your liking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ceviche?
Ceviche is a dish made from raw fish cured in citrus juice, typically lime or lemon, and mixed with other fresh ingredients.
What is in ceviche?
The basic ingredients in ceviche include fresh fish, citrus juice, onions, cilantro or coriander, and peppers. Optional additions can be tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado.
What is ceviche made of?
Ceviche is primarily made of raw fish marinated in citrus juice. The fish is then mixed with other ingredients like onions, coriander, and peppers.
What is the best fish for ceviche?
The best fish for ceviche are sashimi-grade sea bass, snapper, halibut, or tilapia. If in Australia, barramundi, snapper, kingfish, or flathead.
What is the main ingredient in ceviche?
The main ingredient in ceviche is fresh, raw fish.
What country is ceviche from?
Ceviche originated in Peru but is popular in many Latin American countries, each with their own variations.
Conclusion
Ceviche is a delicious and refreshing dish that's easy to make at home. With fresh fish, citrus juice, and a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that's perfect for any occasion.
Whether you enjoy it as a starter or a main course, ceviche is a dish that brings vibrant flavours and a touch of Latin American culture to your table. Give it a try and enjoy the fresh, tangy taste of this classic dish!
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