Mexican ceviche is a vibrant, zesty seafood dish that captures the essence of fresh, bold flavors. A staple in Mexican cuisine and popular worldwide, ceviche combines seafood, citrus, vegetables, and spices into a simple and sophisticated dish. It can be prepared entirely without cooking, relying on citrus juice to “cook” the seafood, or it can include a quick blanching step for those who prefer cooked options. Whether you’re making ceviche mexicano, shrimp ceviche, or tuna ceviche, this versatile dish is perfect as an appetizer, side, or light main course.
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Try our No Bake Cupcake Recipe and No Bake Nutella Pie for simple desserts ideas.
What Makes Mexican Ceviche Special?
Ceviche is a Latin American classic, with each region putting its unique spin on the dish. In Mexico, ceviche is a culinary art form emphasizing bold, fresh flavors and vibrant colors.
The citrus juices, often lime or lemon, “cook” the seafood by denaturing its proteins, giving it a tender yet firm texture. Mexican ceviche typically incorporates ingredients like tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños for a combination of tangy, spicy, and refreshing flavors. This dish is popular for its versatility—it can be served as a starter, a topping for tostadas, or even as a standalone light meal. Plus, it’s healthy, quick to prepare, and endlessly customizable.
Key Ingredients for Mexican Ceviche
The beauty of ceviche lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are easy to find, and their freshness is crucial for the dish’s success.
Essential Ingredients:
Seafood: Shrimp, tuna, or firm white fish like snapper or tilapia. The seafood should be fresh and of high quality since it is the dish’s star.
Citrus Juice: Freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice is essential for marinating and “cooking” the seafood.
Vegetables: Diced tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, and optional radishes add texture and a refreshing crunch.
Herbs: Fresh cilantro is a must for its bright, aromatic flavor.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and jalapeños provide a spicy kick that complements the tangy citrus.
Optional Ingredients for a Twist:
Avocado: Adds creaminess and a rich contrast to the tangy flavors.
Tropical Fruits: Diced mango or pineapple offers a sweet and tangy balance.
Crunchy Additions: Jicama or corn kernels bring additional texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions for No-Cook and Cooked Ceviche
Ceviche can be prepared in two main ways: a no-cook version where citrus juice “cooks” the seafood, and a cooked version where the seafood is briefly blanched before marination. Both versions retain the dish’s vibrant and refreshing qualities.
No-Cook Ceviche Recipe
Ingredients:
500g raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, or tuna, diced
1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
2 medium tomatoes, diced
1 cucumber, peeled and diced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
2 jalapeños, finely diced (optional)
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla chips or tostadas for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Seafood: Cut the shrimp or fish into small, bite-sized pieces. put them in a glass or a ball
Marinate the Seafood: Pour lime juice over the seafood, ensuring it is fully submerged. Cover the bowl and chill it for 20 minutes. The acidity will “cook” the seafood, turning it opaque and firm.
Prepare the Vegetables: While the seafood marinates, dice the tomatoes, cucumber, and onion. Combine them in a bowl with the chopped jalapeños and season with salt and pepper.
Combine the Ingredients: Once the seafood is “cooked,” drain most of the lime juice, leaving a small amount for flavor. Mix the seafood with the prepared vegetables and stir in the cilantro.
Serve: Serve the ceviche chilled with tortilla chips, tostadas, or as a topping for avocado halves.
Cooked Ceviche Recipe
Ingredients:
500g shrimp, peeled and deveined, or tuna, diced
1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
2 medium tomatoes, diced
1 cucumber, peeled and diced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
2 jalapeños, finely diced (optional)
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Tortilla chips or tostadas for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Blanch the seafood by bringing a pot of water to a rolling boil.
Add the shrimp or fish and blanch for 2-3 minutes until opaque. Place them in an ice bath to quickly stop the cooking process.
Marinate the Seafood: Drain the cooked seafood and place it in a bowl. Pour lime juice over it and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes.
Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the tomatoes, cucumber, and onion. Mix them in a bowl with the chopped jalapeños and season with salt and pepper.
Combine the Ingredients: Mix the marinated seafood with the vegetables and stir in the cilantro. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve: Serve the cooked ceviche chilled with tortilla chips, tostadas, or fresh lettuce cups.
Creative Variations of Ceviche
Ceviche is highly adaptable, allowing you to experiment with flavors and ingredients to suit your preferences.
Tropical Ceviche: Add diced mango or pineapple for a fruity, tangy twist.
Spicy Ceviche: Use habanero peppers for an extra fiery kick.
Vegan Ceviche: Replace seafood with diced hearts of palm, mushrooms, or tofu. The lime marinade works just as well for plant-based alternatives.
Japanese-Influenced Ceviche: Incorporate soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions for an umami-rich fusion.
Mediterranean Ceviche: Add olives, capers, and feta cheese to bring a Mediterranean touch.
Health Benefits of Ceviche
Ceviche is not just delicious—it’s also a nutritious choice:
High in Protein: Seafood is an excellent source of lean protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
Low in Fat: Ceviche is naturally low in fat, especially when no oils are added.
Rich in Vitamins and Antioxidants: Lime juice, tomatoes, and vegetables provide a wealth of vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants.
Good for Heart Health: Omega-3 fatty acids in seafood contribute to cardiovascular health.
Aids Digestion: The fiber in fresh vegetables supports digestive health.
Nutritional Values and Preparation Time
No-Cook Version
Nutritional Values (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 18g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Vitamin C | 35% |
Preparation Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marination Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Cooked Version
Nutritional Values (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Vitamin C | 30% |
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 3 minutes
Marination Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Key Takeaways
Ceviche is a dish that celebrates fresh, vibrant flavors. Its simplicity makes it accessible to cooks of all levels, while its versatility allows for endless creativity. Mexican ceviche is a delightful and healthy choice whether you prefer the no-cook version or the cooked one.
Conclusion
Mexican ceviche is a culinary gem that balances bold flavors with fresh ingredients. Its ease of preparation, health benefits, and adaptability make it a dish worth adding to your repertoire. Whether you serve it as a starter, a light main dish, or a party favorite, ceviche will surely impress.
For more information on fish, you can visit: Best fish to eat: Types, recipes, and nutrition
FAQ
1. Is ceviche safe to eat?
Yes, if fresh seafood is used and properly marinated or cooked.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp for ceviche?
Yes, ensure it’s fully thawed and smells fresh before use.
3. How long does ceviche last?
It’s best consumed within 24 hours.
4. Can ceviche be made vegan?
Yes, substitute seafood with hearts of palm, mushrooms, or tofu.
5. What’s the best seafood for ceviche?
Shrimp, tuna, and firm white fish like snapper or tilapia.
6. Is ceviche gluten-free?
Yes, ensure your chips or tostadas are gluten-free.
7. Can I add fruits to ceviche?
Mango and pineapple are popular choices.
8. Should I use bottled lime juice?
Using freshly squeezed lime juice is strongly recommended for optimal flavor.
9. Can I make ceviche spicy?
Yes, adjust the spice with jalapeños or habaneros.
10. What pairs well with ceviche?
Tortilla chips, tostadas, or avocado slices are great accompaniments.