lomiloml
Culinary Explorer
I recently tried my hand at making Peruvian Ceviche Mixto, and it was a refreshing and vibrant dish that transported me straight to the coastal kitchens of Peru. This classic ceviche combines a variety of seafood marinated in fresh lime juice, mixed with crunchy onions, creamy corn, and zesty cilantro. It's a perfect appetizer or light meal that bursts with flavor. Here’s how you can make this delicious Peruvian Ceviche Mixto at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh fish fillets (such as sea bass, snapper, or tilapia), cut into small cubes
- 1/2 lb (225g) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb (225g) cooked squid, cut into rings
- 1/2 lb (225g) cooked octopus, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1-2 fresh chili peppers (such as aji amarillo or jalapeño), thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup fresh lime juice (about 8-10 limes)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cooked corn kernels (preferably Peruvian choclo, but sweet corn works too)
- 1 cup cooked sweet potatoes, cut into cubes
- Lettuce leaves (optional, for serving)
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Seafood:
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed fish, cooked shrimp, squid, and octopus.
- Add the thinly sliced red onion, chili peppers, and minced garlic to the seafood mixture.
- Pour the fresh lime juice over the seafood, ensuring it is fully submerged in the juice. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Gently toss the mixture to combine. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the seafood to marinate and "cook" in the lime juice.
2. Prepare the Garnishes:
- While the seafood is marinating, prepare the cooked corn kernels and sweet potato cubes. These will add texture and balance to the dish.
- Finely chop the fresh cilantro and set aside.
3. Assemble the Ceviche:
- After the seafood has marinated, remove the bowl from the refrigerator.
- Add the chopped cilantro to the marinated seafood mixture and gently toss to combine.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper, if needed.
4. Serve the Ceviche:
- Line serving plates or bowls with lettuce leaves, if using.
- Spoon the ceviche mixture onto the lettuce leaves.
- Garnish with cooked corn kernels and sweet potato cubes.
- Top with fresh cilantro leaves for an extra burst of color and flavor.
Conclusion
Peruvian Ceviche Mixto is a delightful and refreshing dish that showcases the best of Peruvian coastal cuisine. The combination of fresh seafood, zesty lime juice, and vibrant garnishes makes this ceviche a perfect starter or light meal. It’s a true taste of Peru that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this bright and flavorful dish!
