- Is it safe?
- Use "sushi-grade" or very fresh fish from a trusted fishmonger. Freezing fish for 48h prior kills parasites.
- Can I keep leftovers?
- No. After about 30-60 minutes, the acid "overcooks" the fish, making it tough and chalky. Eat immediately.
- Variations?
- Try adding mango or passion fruit for a tropical sweetness that balances the acidity.
Classic White Fish Ceviche with Avocado
Ceviche is a method of 'cooking' fish through acid denaturation rather than heat. The citric acid from the limes alters the structure of the proteins in the fish, turning them opaque and firm. The critical factor is timing: too short, and it's raw sashim; too long, and the acid breaks down the connective tissue completely, resulting in a chalky texture.
Ingredients
1
lb
Fresh White Fish (Sea Bass, Fluke - Sushi Grade)
0.75
cup
Fresh Lime Juice (key limes are best)
1
small
Red Onion (thinly sliced)
1
tbsp
Aji Limo or Habanero (minced)
1
tsp
Salt
1
large
Avocado
2
tbsp
Cilantro
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Glass or Ceramic Bowl: Never use metal bowls (aluminum/copper) with ceviche. The high acid content will react with the metal, giving the fish a metallic taste.
- Very Sharp Knife: To cut the fish into clean cubes without tearing the delicate flesh. Clean cuts ensure even curing.
- Juicer: You need a lot of fresh lime juice. A hand press gets the most juice without the bitter pith oils.
Allergen Information
Fish
Instructions
1
✓
Cut fish into uniform 1/2 inch cubes. Apply salt 2 minutes prior to adding acid.
Tip: Salting beforehand draws out surface moisture via osmosis, allowing the lime juice to penetrate deeper and season the interior of the fish cubes.
2
✓
Introduce lime juice, chilies, and onions. Cure for strictly 5-10 minutes.
Tip: Soaking onions in ice water removes sulfur compounds (the sharp 'bite'), ensuring they add crunch without overpowering the delicate fish.
3
✓
Gently fold in avocado and cilantro immediately before plating.
Tip: Citric acid degrades chlorophyll (cilantro) and oxidizes fats (avocado) rapidly, so these must be added at the very last second.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 1 lb Fresh White Fish (Sea Bass, Fluke - Sushi Grade)
- 0.75 cup Fresh Lime Juice (key limes are best)
- 1 small Red Onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 tbsp Aji Limo or Habanero (minced)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 large Avocado
- 2 tbsp Cilantro