Ecuadorian Ceviche Recipe

Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes  

   Prep Time: 30 minutes

Ecuadorian Ceviche Ingredients

Ecuadorian Ceviche Instructions

  1. Dice the fresh sea bass or corvina into 1/2-inch cubes and place them in a non-reactive bowl.
  2. Pour the freshly squeezed lime juice and orange juice over the fish, ensuring all pieces are submerged.
  3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fish turns opaque and is "cooked" by the citrus.
  4. While the fish marinates, thinly slice the red onion and soak it in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow its flavor, then drain well.
  5. Finely dice the ripe tomato and English cucumber, peel and seed the cucumber before dicing.
  6. Finely chop the fresh cilantro and, if using, mince the habanero or ají amarillo.
  7. In a separate bowl, mix the ketchup, extra-virgin olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and sugar until well combined.
  8. Once the fish is opaque, drain off about half of the marinade, then add the cooked shrimp, sliced onion, diced tomato, cucumber, cilantro, and minced chili to the fish.
  9. Pour the ketchup mixture over the seafood and vegetables, stirring gently to combine.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or sugar as needed.
  11. Cover and chill the ceviche in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  12. Before serving, gently fold in the diced avocado.
  13. Serve the ceviche cold, garnished with lightly salted popcorn and plantain chips on the side if desired.

Estimated Calories: 180, Servings: 4

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Ceviche Story

That season of my life felt like being caught in a sudden rainstorm without an umbrella, each day a little colder and more uncertain than the last. I was moving to a new city, leaving behind the familiar warmth of friends and routines, and the loneliness crept in like fog. One evening, after a particularly long and draining day, I stumbled upon a recipe that promised something both easy and fast, like finding a dry patch of sidewalk in the downpour. The act of preparing it became a small, comforting ritual, a way to anchor myself when everything else felt adrift.
As I sat down to eat, it was as if I had discovered a secret shortcut through a maze, a path that led straight to a sense of home. The first bite was a reminder that even in the midst of upheaval, there are moments of great joy waiting to be found. It was not just about the food, but about reclaiming a sense of control and normalcy. The dish was healthy and delicious, a combination that felt like a rare win during a time when victories were few and far between. It was the best kind of surprise, like finding a letter from an old friend tucked into a forgotten book.
Over time, this meal became my go to comfort, a quick and reliable way to lift my spirits when the world felt heavy. It was a good reminder that sometimes, the simplest things can offer the most profound solace. Like a well worn recipe passed down through generations, it carried with it the promise that even in the hardest transitions, there is always a way to find lightness and hope.

Ceviche FAQ

Imagine crafting the best Ecuadorian ceviche recipe is like assembling a vibrant mosaic-each ingredient is a colorful tile, and swapping one out can change the whole picture. If you're wondering how to make this dish your own, think of the recipe as a playlist: you can remix the tracks to suit your taste, but the rhythm of authentic, homemade flavor should always shine through.
If you want a quick and easy twist, consider using shrimp instead of fish-like switching from acoustic to electric guitar in a song. Both deliver a tasty melody, but shrimp offers a softer, sweeter note. For a simple, yet delicious variation, try adding mango or avocado; it's like adding a splash of color to a black-and-white photo, making the best Ecuadorian ceviche recipe even more vibrant.
For those who crave a spicy kick, tossing in extra chili is like turning up the volume on your favorite track. Just remember, the perfect balance of ingredients is key to keeping the dish harmonious. If you're short on time, using pre-cooked seafood is the culinary equivalent of taking the express train instead of the scenic route-still arriving at a delicious destination, just faster.
If you're curious about how to make the recipe vegetarian, think of it as swapping out the main actor in a play. Hearts of palm or mushrooms can step into the spotlight, delivering a tasty, authentic performance that still honors the spirit of the original. For a homemade touch, squeeze fresh citrus juice instead of using bottled-like painting with real watercolors instead of digital brushes, the flavor will be more vivid and true.
When it comes to tips for the best Ecuadorian ceviche, remember that marinating time is like letting bread rise: patience yields perfection. If you want a quick version, marinate for less time, but for the most delicious, authentic results, let the ingredients mingle and develop their flavors. The beauty of this simple recipe is its flexibility-like jazz, it invites improvisation while still delivering a perfect, tasty experience every time.

Ceviche Quick Mistake Fixes

Imagine a painter who gets a bit too enthusiastic with the salt in their palette, turning a vibrant canvas into a sea of brine. That is what happens when ceviche becomes too salty. The best approach is to treat salt like a supporting actor, not the star. A good ceviche should let the natural flavors shine, not drown them. If you find yourself with a dish that tastes more like the ocean than a fresh, healthy meal, a quick fix is to add more citrus or a splash of water, much like diluting a strong paint to soften the hue. This easy adjustment can bring balance back, making the dish delicious and enjoyable for everyone.
Serving ceviche that is dry or soggy is like presenting a bouquet where the flowers are either wilted or waterlogged. The best ceviche has a texture that is just right, with each bite offering a refreshing burst. If it turns out too dry, it is as if the flowers have been left out in the sun too long, losing their vibrancy. On the other hand, a soggy ceviche is like a bouquet left in too much water, losing its structure and appeal. A good, quick solution is to adjust the amount of citrus juice, adding just enough to keep things lively without overwhelming the ingredients, ensuring a fast and easy path to a great presentation.
Balancing flavors at the last minute is like tuning a guitar before a performance. Sometimes, even the best recipe needs a final adjustment to hit the right note. If the ceviche tastes a bit flat or one-dimensional, a quick squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can act as the final tuning, bringing harmony to the dish. This fast, easy tweak can transform a good ceviche into a great one, making it not just healthy but also delicious, ensuring every bite sings with the right balance of flavors.

About Ceviche Recipe

If you're searching for the best and most authentic way to enjoy a refreshing seafood dish, this Ecuadorian ceviche recipe is a must-try. As a chef who has perfected this dish over countless preparations, I can assure you that the secret lies in using the freshest ingredients and balancing the flavors just right. The combination of citrus-marinated seafood, crisp red onions, ripe tomatoes, and a hint of cilantro creates a delicious and vibrant experience. This homemade ceviche is not only tasty but also incredibly easy and quick to prepare, making it the perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
One of the best aspects of this Ecuadorian recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that bursts with flavor and authenticity. The key is knowing how to make the marinade: freshly squeezed lime and orange juice, a touch of salt, and a dash of pepper. These elements come together to "cook" the seafood, resulting in a texture that's both tender and satisfying. For those looking for tips, always let the ceviche marinate just long enough to infuse the flavors without overcooking the seafood. This ensures your homemade ceviche remains perfectly balanced and irresistibly tasty.
If you want to impress your guests with a quick and easy appetizer, this Ecuadorian ceviche recipe is the answer. It's a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the best of coastal cuisine. Serve it chilled, garnished with fresh herbs, and perhaps a side of crunchy plantain chips for the perfect finishing touch. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook learning how to make ceviche for the first time, following these tips and using quality ingredients will guarantee a delicious and authentic result every time.

Ceviche Pairings

Flavors in Ecuadorian cuisine are like a vibrant festival, each note dancing with the next in a lively parade. The best way to describe the taste experience is to imagine a quick burst of sunshine after a rainstorm: bright, refreshing, and full of life. The tangy citrus, the gentle heat, and the subtle sweetness all come together in a delicious symphony, much like a well-rehearsed orchestra where every instrument knows its place. A good recipe for these flavors is like a map to hidden treasure, guiding you to a healthy and satisfying destination.
Pairing foods with Ecuadorian dishes is like assembling a puzzle where every piece enhances the picture. A great side, such as patacones or chifles, acts as the sturdy frame, giving structure and crunch to the meal. These easy to prepare snacks are the reliable friends at a gathering, always ready to support the main event and make the experience more complete. A fast addition of avocado or a simple salad can be the finishing touch, like a quick brushstroke that brings a painting to life.
Choosing the right drink is like finding the perfect soundtrack for a road trip: it sets the mood and keeps the journey enjoyable. A chilled glass of maracuyá juice or a light beer is a good companion, refreshing and uplifting, much like a cool breeze on a warm day. For those seeking a healthy and non-alcoholic option, coconut water is a delicious and hydrating choice, as easy to enjoy as a quick dip in the ocean. The best pairings are those that complement the dish without overpowering it, creating a harmonious and memorable meal.