Ceviche is a traditional seafood dish that is popular throughout Latin America. It’s also quickly gaining popularity in other parts of the world. This dish consists of raw fish or seafood marinated in citrus juices like lime or lemon and flavored with herbs and spices. It’s also a refreshing and healthy dish perfect for warm weather, and it can be served as an appetizer or main course! This month, we’re giving you a little history along with the components that make ceviche so great. And if you’re craving this dish by the end of this blog, we encourage you to visit Los Primos for some!
History of Ceviche
The exact origins of ceviche are unclear, but it’s believed to have originated in Peru, where it’s been a traditional dish for centuries. Ceviche is so important to Peruvian culture that it has even been declared a national holiday. However, other countries in Latin America, such as Mexico, Ecuador, and Colombia, also have their own versions of ceviche!
Ingredients for Ceviche
The most important ingredient for ceviche is fish or seafood. The fish should be fresh, firm, and preferably boneless. The most commonly used fish for ceviche are tilapia, sea bass, and snapper. Other seafood, such as shrimp, scallops, and squid, can also be used.
The citrus juices used for the marinade are also essential to the dish. Lime juice is the most commonly used, but lemon, orange, or grapefruit juice can also be used. The acidity of the citrus juice is what “cooks” the fish and gives it its tangy flavor.
In addition to the fish and citrus juice, ceviche can be flavored with various herbs and spices. Red onions, cilantro, and jalapeño peppers are commonly used, but other ingredients such as garlic, ginger, and even fruit like mango and pineapple can add extra flavor and texture.
How It’s Made
Making ceviche is surprisingly easy. The first step is to cut the fish or seafood into small pieces and place it in a bowl. Then, pour the citrus juice over the fish, ensuring all the pieces are covered. The fish should be marinated in citrus juice for about 15-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish.
While the fish is marinating, the other ingredients can be prepared. Red onions can be thinly sliced, and cilantro and jalapeño peppers can be chopped. Once the fish has been marinated, the onions, cilantro, and jalapeño peppers can be added to the bowl, along with any other herbs or spices.
Try Ceviche at Los Primos!
At Los Primos, our ceviche is made with fresh shrimp marinated in lemon sauce. If you’re curious about what other offerings we have, we encourage you to check out our online menu for more information! We look forward to seeing you soon!