The Perfect Ceviche Recipe

Ceviche, a beloved dish hailing from Latin America, is a celebration of fresh seafood, vibrant flavors, and zesty citrus juices. This culinary masterpiece has captivated food enthusiasts worldwide with its simplicity and bold taste. If you’re ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure that embraces the essence of the ocean, follow this guide to crafting the perfect ceviche recipe using metric measurements.

Ingredients:

• 500g fresh white fish fillets (such as sea bass, snapper, or sole), diced into bite-sized pieces
• 4-5 limes, freshly squeezed (approximately 200ml of lime juice)
• 2 lemons, freshly squeezed (approximately 100ml of lemon juice)
• 1 teaspoon salt (about 5g)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (about 5g)
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1-2 chili peppers (such as jalapeño or red chili), finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 small bunch of fresh cilantro (coriander), chopped
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (about 15ml)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Seafood: Start by thoroughly rinsing the fish fillets under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Cut the fish into uniform bite-sized pieces and transfer them to a non-reactive bowl.
2. Marinate in Citrus Juices: In a separate bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lime and lemon juice. Add salt and sugar to the citrus mixture, stirring until dissolved. Pour the citrus marinade over the diced fish, ensuring that all pieces are submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fish to “cook” in the acidic juices. The fish should turn opaque and firm when fully marinated.
3. Add Flavorful Accents: Once the fish is “cooked” in the citrus marinade, add the chopped red onion, diced tomatoes, finely chopped chili peppers, and fresh cilantro to the bowl. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the mixture, gently tossing everything together to combine. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or chili peppers if desired.
4. Chill and Serve: Allow the ceviche to chill in the refrigerator for an additional 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, give the ceviche a final toss to ensure even distribution of the ingredients. Serve the ceviche cold, either in a large serving bowl or individual plates, garnished with additional cilantro leaves or slices of lime.
5. Enjoy Responsibly: Ceviche is best enjoyed immediately after preparation, while the flavors are fresh and vibrant. Serve it as a refreshing appetizer, light lunch, or part of a seafood spread. Pair it with crispy tortilla chips, toasted bread, or fresh lettuce leaves for scooping up the flavorful mixture.

Safety Note: As with any raw seafood dish, it’s important to use only the freshest ingredients and handle them with care to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Ensure that the fish is sourced from a reputable supplier and consume the ceviche within a few hours of preparation. Avoid letting it sit at room temperature for extended periods and always store leftovers in the refrigerator.

In conclusion, crafting the perfect ceviche is a delightful culinary adventure that celebrates the vibrant flavors of the sea. By following this simple recipe and embracing the freshness of the ingredients, you can create a dish that delights the senses and transports you to sun-drenched shores with every bite. So, gather your ingredients, sharpen your knife, and prepare to savor the taste of the ocean with this exquisite ceviche recipe in metric measurements.