Ceviche

Ceviche (also spelt cebiche or seviche) is a seafood dish popular in the coastal regions of the Americas, especially Central and South America.  The dish is typically made from fresh raw fish marinated in citrus juices such as lemon or lime and spiced with chilli peppers. Additional seasonings such as onion, salt, and pepper may also be added.

Ceviche is usually accompanied by side dishes that complement its flavors such as sweet potato, lettuce, corn, or avocado. As the dish is not cooked with heat, it must be prepared fresh to avoid potentially detrimental effects on the health of the consumer.

Ingredients

1 kg tilapia fillets, finely diced

1 cup lime juice (about 8 large limes)

1/2 cup seeded chopped tomato

1/2 cucumber, peeled, seeded and finely diced

1/2 cup finely chopped onion

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/2 cup clam-tomato juice optional

1 tablespoon bottled hot sauce  optional

1 serrano chile, optional

Grilled Tostadas, recipe follows, or 6 purchased tostadas

Mayonnaise, for spreading

1 avocado, halved, pitted, peeled, and thinly sliced

1 lime, cut into wedges

Elaboration

Put the tilapia in a medium bowl. Pour the lime juice over the fish and mix gently to combine. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator until the fish is white throughout, about 15 to 20 minutes.

Remove from the refrigerator and drain off the lime juice, gently squeezing the fish with your hands. Discard the lime juice. Add the tomato, cucumber, onion, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Add the clam-tomato juice and the hot sauce and chile, if using.

Spread the tostadas generously with mayonnaise and top with the ceviche. Arrange the avocado slices on top of the ceviche and serve immediately with the lime wedges alongside.