Shrimp Ceviche Recipe
Shrimp ceviche recipe is a fresh, vibrant, and tangy seafood dish perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or even a snack on a hot day. This dish is packed with flavors from citrus, fresh herbs, and vegetables that enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp. While it’s often associated with coastal cuisine, ceviche has gained worldwide popularity thanks to its refreshing taste and ease of preparation. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make delicious shrimp ceviche at home.
A Brief History of Shrimp Ceviche:
Ceviche is a traditional Latin American dish that dates back over 2,000 years, originating from the coastal regions of what is now Peru. Early versions of ceviche were made by marinating fresh fish in fermented juices and then serving it raw. With the arrival of the Spanish, the recipe evolved, and citrus fruits like lime and lemon became a primary component.
Shrimp ceviche, in particular, has become popular in many countries, including Mexico and Ecuador, where it’s enjoyed as a zesty and refreshing meal. The citrus used in the dish acts as a form of “cooking” the shrimp, which makes it a fascinating and flavorful dish for seafood lovers.
Shrimp Ceviche Recipe
Equipment
- A large mixing bowl
- A sharp knife
- A citrus juicer
- Measuring cups
- Serving dish
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp (peeled, deveined, and cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup fresh lime juice (about 8-10 limes)
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons)
- 1 medium red onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips or tostadas (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the ShrimpStart by cutting the shrimp into bite-sized pieces. If you're using raw shrimp, ensure that they are peeled and deveined. Place the shrimp into a large mixing bowl.
- Marinate the ShrimpPour the freshly squeezed lime and lemon juices over the shrimp, making sure they are completely submerged.
- The acidic juices will “cook” the shrimp as they marinate. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp. You'll know they’re ready when the shrimp turn opaque and firm to the touch.
- Prepare the VegetablesWhile the shrimp is marinating, finely chop the red onion, cucumber, tomato, and jalapeño (if using). Set the diced vegetables aside.
- Combine the IngredientsOnce the shrimp is fully marinated and “cooked” by the citrus juices, drain off a little of the excess liquid if needed.
- Add the chopped onion, cucumber, tomato, jalapeño, and fresh cilantro to the shrimp. Mix everything together gently to combine the flavors.
- Season the CevicheSeason the ceviche with salt and pepper to taste. You can also adjust the amount of lime and lemon juice to your preference for tanginess.
- Garnish and ServeBefore serving, you can add diced avocado on top for a creamy texture. Serve the shrimp ceviche with tortilla chips or tostadas for a crunchy contrast.
- Enjoy this zesty and refreshing dish immediately for the best flavor!
Video
Similar Recipes:
– Fish Ceviche: Made using fresh white fish such as tilapia or sea bass, with similar seasonings.
– Tuna Poke: A Hawaiian dish made with raw tuna, soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh vegetables.
– Octopus Ceviche: A variant of ceviche using octopus as the primary seafood.
– Aguachile: A Mexican dish similar to ceviche but with a spicy kick, using shrimp marinated in lime juice and blended with chili peppers.
– Scallop Ceviche: A delicious twist on ceviche, using scallops instead of shrimp.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp Ceviche Recipe:
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for ceviche?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using.
2. How long should I marinate the shrimp?
Marinate the shrimp for at least 30 minutes but no longer than 1 hour to avoid over-marinating, which can make the shrimp tough.
3. Is shrimp ceviche safe to eat?
As long as the shrimp is fresh and properly marinated in acidic citrus juice, shrimp ceviche is safe to eat. The citrus effectively “cooks” the shrimp.
4. Can I make ceviche with cooked shrimp?
Yes, you can use cooked shrimp if you prefer. In this case, reduce the marinating time to about 10-15 minutes, as the shrimp won’t need to “cook” in the citrus.
5. What should I serve with shrimp ceviche?
Shrimp ceviche is often served with tortilla chips, tostadas, or over a bed of lettuce. It can also be enjoyed on its own.
6. How long can I store shrimp ceviche?
It’s best to eat shrimp ceviche the same day it’s made, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
7. Can I add other seafood to the shrimp ceviche?
Yes! You can mix in other seafood like fish, scallops, or octopus to create a seafood medley ceviche.
8. What if I don’t like cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can omit it or replace it with fresh parsley for a milder flavor.
9. Is ceviche gluten-free?
Yes, shrimp ceviche is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to check any additional ingredients, like tortilla chips, for gluten content.
Conclusion:
Shrimp ceviche is a delicious and versatile dish that combines bright citrus flavors with fresh seafood and vegetables. It’s the perfect dish to impress your guests at a summer gathering or enjoy as a light and refreshing meal any time of the year. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, shrimp ceviche is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
YouTube Video Credits:
Preppy Kitchen
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