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Ceviche
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Instructions
Ceviche
The fish should marinate in the lime juice for at least 30 minutes, but it normally takes at least an hour for the process to really take hold. Any longer than two hours begins to impact the flavour and texture.
Avoid squeezing the lime too hard as this will release bitter oils from the skin that can lead to a less than desirable flavour. If limes are still too acidic for your tastes, try swapping them for lemon or orange.
Along with the ingredients listed above, the addition of avocado to ceviche is common and helps add a fattier contrast to the acidity. The fish can also be traded for shrimp for a crunchier texture. Try serving with tortillas or tostadas as an alternative that will achieve a near perfect textural contrast.
The marinating process allows the citric acid from the lime juice to denature the proteins in the fish in a similar, but not the same, way as cooking. The fish gains a uniquely opaque and firm texture as a result.
Ingredients
Salmon fillet
|
100 g |
---|---|
Cod fillet
|
100 g |
Salt to taste
|
|
Red chilli
|
1 |
Lime fruits, squeezed
|
3 |
Garlic clove
|
1 |
Fresh ginger, finely chopped
|
2 tsp |
Red onion
|
½ |
Cucumber
|
½ |
Spring onions
|
½ bunch |
Frozen mangos (defrosted)
|
250 g |
Garnish
Fresh coriander
|
1 bunch |
---|---|
Roasted sweetcorn
|
100 g |
The origins of ceviche
Ceviche is a dish so old that it predates written recipes and the concept of curing raw fish with acid goes back thousands of years. Originally, the people of the region we today know as Peru, used chilli for the curing process. This method was later traded for citrus juice when such fruits were brought to South America from Europe and Asia.
Handy and delicious ingredient swaps
The traditional recipe for ceviche is largely standardised, give or take the addition of avocado according to taste. One interpretation that is becoming increasingly popular is a vegetarian version where raw fish is replaced with diced raw cauliflower. Simply follow the same recipe and marinating process for a flavour-packed spin on this much-loved classic.
Beverage pairing suggestions
White wine and fish is a classic pairing, and for good reason: the acidic and fresh notes of the wine perfectly offset the delicate flavours of the fish and spiciness of the marinade. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, match your ceviche with a spicy margarita, a not-so-traditional but oh-so-delicious pairing that will multiply every flavour.
Storage tips for leftovers
While ceviche is best and most safely eaten immediately, draining off the marinade and storing in an airtight container will let the dish keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours if you need to prepare it in advance.