If you’re looking for a tasty and healthy meal, snack, or appetizer you can prepare in minutes, look no further than ceviche.
Ceviche is a traditional Latin American dish made from fresh seafood, vegetables, and citrus juice.
Not into fish or prefer to go vegan? You can also make ceviche with fresh plantain!
I’ll share my favorite homemade seafood or vegan ceviche recipe in this article. So easy to make and delicious; I know you’ll enjoy it!
What is Ceviche?
Ceviche is a classic Latin American dish. The traditional ceviche recipe consists of fresh raw fish marinated in acidic citrus juice. This marinade, usually made with lime or lemon juice, gives ceviche its distinctive flavor. In addition, ceviche is typically served with fresh vegetables, such as lettuce, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions or corn chips, and avocado.
Ceviche is not only delicious, but it is also incredibly healthy. Citrus juice helps break down the fish’s proteins, making it easier to digest. Additionally, ceviche is a great way to incorporate more fresh fish into your diet. You can make it with various types of fish, including shrimp, sea bass, tuna, and halibut.
Making ceviche at home is easy and requires little time or effort. All you need are the ingredients, a cutting board, a sharp knife, and a bowl. It is also a great way to use leftover fish, as the marinade helps preserve and keep the fish fresh.
So, ceviche is the perfect option if you’re looking for a delicious, healthy, and quick meal. With just a few accessible ingredients, you can make a delightful ceviche dish quickly.
Is Ceviche Healthy?
Yes! Ceviche is one of the most healthy snacks or dishes you can make. Not only is ceviche a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, but it is also naturally low in fat and calories. With various fresh and seasonal ingredients, ceviche is a great way to incorporate healthy food into your meals.
Fish ceviche is loaded with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. Research also indicates that Omega-3 fatty acids may reduce inflammation, lowering the risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, ceviche is an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals like selenium, C, and B12.
Plantain ceviche is a carb-rich dish and a good fiber, vitamins, and minerals source. Plantains contain antioxidants that fight free radicals. With good levels of vitamin C, they can also support immune function. Likewise, their vitamin B6 content may reduce cardiovascular risk and improve mood.
What Ingredients Are Needed to Make Ceviche?
Regarding ceviche, the best flavors come from the freshest ingredients. So to make a delicious ceviche at home, you’ll need to start with the right stuff.
Seafood:
- Select the freshest seafood available. If you’re using fish, ensure it is sushi-grade and has been stored properly.
- If you’re using shrimp, look for uncooked, large shrimp.
- Avoid frozen, pre-cooked seafood, as it will not have the same texture and flavor when cooked.
Vegetables:
Choose fresh vegetables for your ceviche. For best results, use vegetables in season – bell pepper and red or yellow onions are a must, but you can add celery if you like.
Remember, if you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan recipe, you can substitute plantain, mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh instead of seafood.
Citrus Juice:
The acidity of citrus juice is essential for making ceviche. Avoid bottled juice and go for fresh, organic limes, lemons, or tart oranges for the best flavor.
Spices and Herbs:
Choose your favorite spices and herbs to add flavor to your ceviche. Commonly used ingredients include cilantro, garlic, jalapeño, and red pepper flakes.
Cooking Time: Ceviche is typically served raw, so it’s essential to adjust the “cooking” time depending on the type of fish you’re using. If you’re using a thin fish, it should only take a few minutes. Give a few extra minutes if you’re using a thicker cut.
Ceviche Variations to Try at Home
When it comes to types of ceviche, there are endless variations you can try. Shrimp, fish, and scallops are all popular choices, and you can incorporate other ingredients, such as tomatoes, peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs, to your taste.
Some like to make ceviche with just one type of seafood, while others enjoy a hearty mix. I always whip up a batch of plantain ceviche for my vegetarian loved ones while I’m at it. No matter your main ingredients, ceviche is nearly always a crowd-pleaser.
You can also mix different citrus juices and spices to create a unique flavor. Finally, here are a few tips for making ceviche that is both delicious and healthy:
- Make sure to use the freshest seafood you can find. Frozen seafood will produce a different flavor or texture, creating less-than-stellar results.
- Marinate the seafood in citrus juices for 30 minutes to an hour. Too little time and the seafood will be raw; too long and the liquid will “overcook” it.
- Give the ceviche a few hours to rest and chill before serving, allowing all the flavors to mingle and develop.
Classic Ceviche Recipe
Ceviche is simple, and it’s best to use a classic recipe. To make my favorite traditional ceviche recipe, you will need the following ingredients and tools:
- 1 lb of fresh fish, shellfish, or thickly chopped plantain
- 3 large limes, lemons, or tangy oranges
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 large bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Your favorite sharp kitchen knife
- A sharp fish fillet knife
- A cutting board
- A large mixing bowl
Start by cutting the seafood or plantain into bite-sized pieces. Place the pieces in a bowl and squeeze the citrus juice over the top, covering the fish or plantain. Cover the bowl and let your main ingredient “cook” in the liquid for 30 minutes to an hour.
Next, add the diced tomato, onion, and cilantro to the mixture– season with salt and pepper to taste. Give the ceviche a good stir and allow it to chill in the fridge for a few hours.
When you’re ready to serve, scoop the ceviche into small dishes or onto a bed of lettuce. Serve with tortilla chips or air-fried plantains and sliced avocado.
Homemade Ceviche– Perfect for any Occasion
Ceviche is a fantastic dish that is both delicious and healthy. It’s also quick to make and doesn’t require a lot of ingredients. With our recipes, you can make ceviche at home in no time.
