18 Traditional Peruvian Ceviche Recipe They're Simply Irresistible!

Published on: Mar 31, 2024

Peru is known for its vibrant culture and mouth-watering cuisine, and one dish that stands out is traditional Peruvian ceviche. This iconic dish has been a staple in Peruvian cuisine for centuries and is loved by locals and tourists alike. With its fresh ingredients and bold flavors, Peruvian ceviche is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the true taste of Peru. In this article, we will take a closer look at the main ingredients and methods used in making this delectable dish, so you can recreate an authentic Peruvian ceviche in the comfort of your own home.

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Ingredients

To make a traditional Peruvian ceviche, you will need fresh seafood, preferably white fish such as sea bass or flounder, lime juice, red onion, aji amarillo (a type of Peruvian chili pepper), garlic, cilantro, sweet potato, corn, and sweet potato chips for serving. These ingredients are essential in creating the distinct flavors and textures of Peruvian ceviche.

Seafood

The key to a good Peruvian ceviche is using fresh seafood. It is important to use high-quality, sustainable seafood to support local fishermen and preserve the ocean's resources. In Peru, the most commonly used seafood in ceviche is white fish, but you can also add shrimp, octopus, or scallops for a twist. Make sure to buy your seafood from a trusted source and clean it thoroughly before use.

Lime Juice

Lime juice is the star ingredient in Peruvian ceviche, as it is used to cook the seafood. The acidity of the lime juice breaks down the proteins in the fish, giving it a tender and cooked texture. It is important to use fresh lime juice for the best results, as bottled lime juice may contain preservatives that can alter the taste of your ceviche.

Aji Amarillo

Aji amarillo is a type of Peruvian chili pepper that adds a spicy kick and vibrant color to the ceviche. It has a fruity and slightly sweet flavor, making it a key ingredient in many Peruvian dishes. If you cannot find aji amarillo in your local grocery store, you can substitute it with a combination of yellow bell pepper and a dash of cayenne pepper.

Sweet Potato and Corn

Sweet potato and corn are popular accompaniments to Peruvian ceviche, adding a balance of sweetness and texture to the dish. In Peru, these ingredients are usually boiled and served on the side, but you can also add them directly to the ceviche for a heartier meal.

Method

To make traditional Peruvian ceviche, start by dicing the fish into bite-sized pieces and marinating them in lime juice for about 10-15 minutes. While the fish is marinating, mix together the red onion, aji amarillo, garlic, and cilantro in a separate bowl. Once the fish is "cooked" in the lime juice, add it to the onion mixture and mix well. Let the ceviche sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Finally, serve the ceviche with boiled sweet potato and corn on the side, and top it off with sweet potato chips for a satisfying crunch.

In Conclusion

Traditional Peruvian ceviche is a simple yet flavorful dish that captures the essence of Peruvian cuisine. With its fresh ingredients and unique cooking method, Peruvian ceviche is a must-try for any food lover. So next time you're craving a taste of Peru, gather these ingredients and follow this recipe to create an authentic and delicious Peruvian ceviche.