Here's a classic ceviche recipe and the steps to prepare it:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450 grams) fresh white fish fillets (such as snapper, tilapia, or sole), cut into small cubes
- 1 cup fresh lime juice
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
- 1 ripe tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (coriander)
- 1 avocado, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional ingredients:
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup diced mango
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
Steps:
1. Place the fish cubes in a glass or stainless steel bowl.
2. Pour the lime juice over the fish, making sure it is fully submerged. The acid from the lime juice will "cook" the fish.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. Stir the fish occasionally to ensure all pieces are evenly exposed to the lime juice.
4. While the fish is marinating, prepare the other ingredients.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the sliced red onion, chopped jalapeño peppers, diced tomato, and chopped cilantro.
6. If desired, add any optional ingredients like diced cucumber, mango, bell pepper, or pineapple to the mixture.
7. Remove the fish from the refrigerator and drain the lime juice. Add the fish to the bowl with the other ingredients.
8. Gently toss all the ingredients together until they are well combined.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to taste the ceviche and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
10. Finally, add the diced avocado and lightly toss to avoid smashing the avocado.
11. Let the ceviche rest in the refrigerator for another 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
12. Serve the ceviche chilled. It can be enjoyed on its own or served with tortilla chips, tostadas, or as a topping for salad greens.
Note: It's important to use fresh and high-quality fish for ceviche. The lime juice should completely cover the fish to ensure proper "cooking" and to kill any potential bacteria. Additionally, you can adjust the spiciness of the ceviche by adding or reducing the amount of jalapeño peppers used. Enjoy your homemade ceviche!