Ceviche is a classic Mexican dish that’s vibrant, fresh, and bursting with flavor. Made with fresh seafood, citrus juices, and crisp vegetables, it’s the perfect appetizer or light meal, especially on warm days. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making authentic Mexican ceviche that captures the essence of coastal cuisine.
Ingredients for Authentic Mexican Ceviche
To make Mexican-style ceviche, gather the following fresh ingredients:
- Seafood: Choose high-quality, fresh fish like red snapper, halibut, or shrimp.
- Citrus Juices: Lime and lemon juices are essential for “cooking” the seafood.
- Vegetables: Diced tomatoes, red onions, cucumbers, and jalapeños add crunch and flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh cilantro enhances the dish’s bright, zesty taste.
- Seasonings: Sea salt, black pepper, and a touch of olive oil bring it all together.
- Optional Add-Ins: Avocado, mango, or clamato juice for regional variations.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ceviche
1. Select and Prepare the Seafood
Start with the freshest fish or shrimp you can find. If using shrimp, peel and devein them before dicing. Cut the fish or shrimp into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure even marination.
2. Marinate the Seafood in Citrus Juice
Place the seafood in a non-reactive bowl (like glass or ceramic) and cover it completely with lime and lemon juice. The acid in the citrus juice “cooks” the seafood by denaturing its proteins. Let it sit in the refrigerator for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the seafood turns opaque.
3. Prepare the Vegetables
While the seafood marinates, dice the tomatoes, red onions, cucumbers, and jalapeños into small, uniform pieces. Adjust the amount of jalapeño based on your spice preference. Chop the cilantro finely.
4. Combine and Season
Once the seafood is “cooked,” drain off excess citrus juice, leaving a little for flavor. Mix the seafood with the prepared vegetables, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and gently toss to combine.
5. Add Optional Ingredients
If desired, mix in diced avocado for creaminess or mango for a hint of sweetness. In some Mexican regions, a splash of clamato juice is added for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve ceviche immediately to enjoy its fresh flavors. Here’s how to present it:
- Tostadas: Spoon ceviche onto crispy tostadas for a traditional experience.
- Tortilla Chips: Serve as a dip with tortilla chips for a casual appetizer.
- Side Dishes: Pair with a light salad or Mexican-style rice for a complete meal.
- Drinks: Complement with a cold cerveza, margarita, or agua fresca.
Tips for Perfect Mexican Ceviche
- Freshness Is Key: Always use the freshest seafood available. Frozen seafood works in a pinch but won’t yield the same results.
- Citrus Variety: Experiment with different citrus fruits, like orange or grapefruit, for unique flavor twists.
- Timing Matters: Don’t marinate the seafood too long, as it can become rubbery.
- Regional Touches: Explore regional variations by adding ingredients like serrano peppers, radishes, or corn.
Conclusion
Making ceviche like they do in Mexico is easier than you might think. With a handful of fresh ingredients and a little preparation, you can create a dish that transports your taste buds to the vibrant beaches of Mexico. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal, this ceviche recipe will impress and delight.
