Fresh Hawaiian Fish Ceviche
Ceviche, a dish synonymous with the sun-soaked coasts of Latin America, is a perfect Hawaii afternoon snack. As a Cuban American living in Hawaii, combining the tradition of ceviche with the unique flavors of Hawaiian fish results in a culinary experience that's both refreshing and delicious!
At its core, ceviche is a dish that showcases the quality and freshness of its ingredients. The traditional preparation involves marinating raw fish in citrus juice, which "cooks" the fish through a process called denaturation. The acid in the juice changes the protein structure in the fish, giving it a firm texture and opaque appearance, similar to what you achieve with heat cooking.
Creating fresh Hawaiian fish ceviche is straightforward, but attention to detail is crucial. Start with the freshest fish you can find. For an authentic Hawaiian touch, mahi-mahi or Pink Snapper (Opakapaka) are excellent choices due to their firm flesh and rich flavor. The fish is diced into small cubes, allowing the citrus marinade to permeate and "cook" the fish evenly.
We love a blend of lime, lemon, and orange juices is used for the marinade. This combination not only provides the necessary acidity but also adds layers of flavor, balancing the sharpness of lime with the sweetness of orange. The fish is submerged in this citrus mixture and left to marinate for about 20-30 minutes, just enough time to achieve the desired texture without becoming overly firm.
To complement the marinated fish, finely diced red onions, jalapeños, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro are added. These ingredients bring color, crunch, and a burst of flavor, enhancing the ceviche's overall profile. The red onion provides a mild sharpness, the jalapeño adds a hint of heat, and the cherry tomatoes contribute a touch of sweetness. Fresh cilantro ties everything together with its distinctive herbal note.
Serving Suggestions
Fresh Hawaiian fish ceviche is best enjoyed immediately after preparation. Serve it with tortilla chips or tostones (fried plantain chips) for a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the tender fish. Lime wedges on the side allow for an extra squeeze of freshness, and hot sauce can be offered for those who enjoy an additional kick of spice.
- Prioritize Freshness: The quality of the fish is paramount. Always use the freshest fish available to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Uniform Cuts: Cutting the fish into uniform pieces ensures even marination and a consistent texture throughout the dish.
- Marinate Properly: Avoid over-marinating the fish. About 20-30 minutes is ideal to achieve the perfect texture without making the fish too firm.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to modify the amount of jalapeño, cilantro, and citrus juices based on personal preference.
Fresh Hawaiian fish ceviche is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. The combination of high-quality fish, fresh citrus, and colorful vegetables creates a dish that is both healthy and delicious. Whether you're enjoying it as a light meal, an appetizer, or a snack, this ceviche is sure to transport you to the sandy shores and crystal-clear waters of Hawaii with every bite. Embrace the flavors of the islands and enjoy this delightful twist on a classic dish!
Print📖 Recipe
Fresh Snapper Ceviche
- Prep Time: 10 Minutes
- Cook Time: 15 Minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup diced red onion
- ⅓ cup diced red pepper
- 1 green onion, minced
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp. jalapeno, minced
- ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp. fresh orange juice
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice
- 1 pinch sugar
- 1 ½ Kosher salt
- ½ lb. fresh snapper or other firm white fish, cut into ½ inch pieces
- Plantain chips or tortilla chips
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except the fish in a small bowl.
- Add the fish and gently stir to combine and ensure that fish becomes coated in the marinade.
- Let sit at least 15 minutes and enjoy!
Notes
We love to eat this with taro or plantain chips. If you can't find either of these, your favorite chip will work!
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