Ceviche Recipe – Panama's Fresh Seafood Delight

Name: Ceviche
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 3-5 servings
Cuisine: Panama
Ingredients: avocado for garnish; black pepper; cilantro; cloves garlic; freshly squeezed lemon juice about lemons; freshly squeezed lime juice about limes; green bell pepper; jalapeños; plantain chips for serving; pound fish fillets such as snapper tilapia; red bell pepper; red onion; salt; sea bass cut into cubes; serrano peppers for heat; tortilla chips

Ceviche is a quintessential dish in Panama, celebrated for its vibrant flavors and refreshing qualities. Made with fresh fish marinated in citrus juices, it is often enjoyed as an appetizer or light meal, especially during festive gatherings. This dish embodies the coastal culture of Panama, highlighting the country's rich seafood heritage.

⚡ Easy 🔥 ~200 kcal / serving

Ingredients

1 pound fresh fish fillets (such as snapper, tilapia, or sea bass), cut into small cubes
1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 6-8 limes)
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1 small green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped
1-2 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 jalapeños or serrano peppers, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 avocado, diced (optional, for garnish)
Tortilla chips or plantain chips (for serving)

Instructions

Prepare the Fish

In a large bowl, combine the fish cubes with the lime juice and lemon juice.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 2-3 hours, or until the fish is opaque and firm. The citrus juice will "cook" the fish.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the fish is marinating, mix together the chopped red onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeños (if using) in a separate bowl.

Combine and Season

Once the fish is ready, drain off excess citrus juice, leaving just a small amount to mix with the vegetables.

Add the prepared vegetables to the fish mixture and stir to combine.

Stir in the chopped cilantro, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Serve

Garnish with diced avocado, if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ceviche?

Ceviche is a dish of marinated raw fish, typically cured in citrus juices and mixed with various ingredients for flavor.

Where does Ceviche come from?

Ceviche has roots in Latin America, particularly in coastal countries like Panama, where it's a popular traditional dish.

What are the main ingredients in Ceviche?

Key ingredients include fresh fish, lime juice, lemon juice, red onion, bell peppers, garlic, and optional peppers for heat.

How long does Ceviche take to make?

Ceviche takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare, plus 2-3 hours for marinating the fish.

What do you serve with Ceviche?

Ceviche is often served with tortilla chips, avocado slices, or a side of sweet potato for a complete meal.

Ceviche