Cómo preparar el ceviche
Ceviche, a traditional Peruvian dish, has gained worldwide popularity for its fresh, zesty flavors and vibrant colors. Made primarily with raw fish, lime juice, and a variety of spices, this dish is a testament to the culinary art of marinating and enhancing the natural flavors of its ingredients. If you’re interested in learning how to prepare this delicious seafood delight, follow these simple steps to create your own ceviche at home.
First, gather all the necessary ingredients. You will need fresh, high-quality fish, such as sea bass, snapper, or tilapia, along with a generous amount of fresh limes or lemons. Other key ingredients include red onions, cilantro, chili peppers, salt, and aji amarillo paste. Don’t forget to have some corn or corn tortillas on the side for a complete meal.
Start by slicing the fish into thin, bite-sized pieces. Place the fish in a large bowl and season it with salt. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the salt to draw out any excess moisture from the fish.
In a separate bowl, juice the limes or lemons until you have enough lime juice to cover the fish. Pour the lime juice over the fish and gently toss to ensure that all the pieces are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or until the fish turns a milky white color. This process is known as “curing” and it’s what gives ceviche its unique texture and flavor.
While the fish is curing, prepare the onions and chili peppers. Thinly slice the red onions and place them in a bowl with cold water. This step is crucial, as it helps to mellow out the sharpness of the onions. Let them sit for about 10 minutes before draining and squeezing out any excess water.
Next, finely chop the cilantro and chili peppers. In a small bowl, combine the chopped cilantro, chili peppers, and aji amarillo paste. This mixture will serve as the sauce for your ceviche.
Once the fish has cured, drain any excess lime juice and discard it. Add the sliced onions to the fish and gently toss to combine. Now, add the cilantro-chili sauce and toss everything together until well mixed.
Serve the ceviche immediately, as it’s best enjoyed fresh. You can garnish it with additional cilantro, slices of chili pepper, or a squeeze of lime juice. Pair it with some corn or corn tortillas for a satisfying meal.
Now that you know how to prepare ceviche, you can impress your friends and family with this delightful dish. Remember, the key to a great ceviche lies in the quality of the ingredients and the balance of flavors. Happy cooking!
