Introduction to Mexican Ceviche Recipe
Mexican ceviche is a vibrant and flavorful seafood dish that has its origins in Peru but has gained immense popularity in Mexico. It’s a fresh, tangy, and spicy treat that is perfect for a summer meal or a light lunch. The key to a great ceviche lies in the balance of ingredients and the marination process that allows the flavors to meld together. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious recipe.
Ingredients
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) of fresh fish, such as sea bass, snapper, or tilapia
- 1/2 cup (125ml) of fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup (60ml) of fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup (60ml) of orange juice
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup (125ml) of chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup (60ml) of diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup (60ml) of diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup (60ml) of diced tomato
- 1/4 cup (60ml) of diced avocado
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Preparation
Start by preparing the fish. Make sure it’s fresh and cut into small, bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the lime, lemon, and orange juices. Add the fish pieces and let them marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, to allow the citrus juices to “cook” the fish slightly and infuse it with flavor.
While the fish is marinating, prepare the other ingredients. Thinly slice the red onion and dice the bell pepper, cucumber, tomato, and avocado. In a separate bowl, mix together the salt, cumin, chili powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to create the seasoning blend.
Assembling the Ceviche
After the fish has marinated, taste it to check for doneness. The fish should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch. Drain the fish and discard the citrus juice. Add the sliced red onion, diced vegetables, and seasoning blend to the fish.
Finally, add the chopped cilantro and gently toss everything together. The ceviche is best served immediately, as the flavors are at their peak right after preparation. You can garnish with additional cilantro or a squeeze of fresh lime juice if desired.
Enjoying Your Mexican Ceviche
Mexican ceviche is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of tortilla chips or tostadas. It’s a perfect appetizer for a gathering or a refreshing meal on a hot day. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors makes it a standout dish that is sure to impress.
Remember, the key to a great ceviche is to use the freshest ingredients and to let the flavors develop through the marination process. With this recipe, you’ll be able to create a delicious and authentic Mexican ceviche that will leave your taste buds dancing.