A bright, tropical cevceviche that marries smoky chipotle heat with sweet mango and creamy coconut milk, lightly “cooked” in citrus for a refreshing appetizer.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
1 pound (450 g) firm white fish (snapper, sea bass, or mahi‑mahi), skinless and boneless, cut into ½‑inch cubes
½ cup (120 ml) fresh lime juice
⅓ cup (80 ml) coconut milk (full‑fat)
1 medium (about 1 cup) ripe mango, peeled and diced
¼ cup red onion, very thinly sliced
1 teaspoon red chili (e.g., serrano or bird’s eye), seeded and minced
1 tablespoon chipotle chili oil (smoked)
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
½ medium avocado, diced (optional)
1 teaspoon lime zest
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon toasted coconut flakes, for garnish
4 wedges lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Place the cubed fish in a glass or ceramic bowl and pour the lime juice over it. Sprinkle with sea salt and pepper, then gently toss to coat. Let the fish marinate in the citrus for 10–12 minutes; the acid will “cook” the flesh and turn it opaque.
- 2. While the fish is marinating, prepare the fresh components: dice the mango, thinly slice the red onion, mince the chili, and chop the cilantro. If using avocado, dice it now and set aside to add later.
- 3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, chipotle chili oil, lime zest, and a pinch of salt until smooth. This creates a smoky‑sweet, creamy dressing.
- 4. When the fish has turned opaque, drain off about one‑third of the lime juice (reserve the rest for extra tang). Add the mango, red onion, minced chili, and cilantro to the fish, and gently fold to combine.
- 5. Pour the coconut‑chipotle dressing over the ceviche mixture, stirring carefully to keep the mango cubes intact. Taste and adjust seasoning with a little more salt or a squeeze of fresh lime if desired.
- 6. If using avocado, fold it in now, being gentle to avoid mushing the pieces.
- 7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 8. To serve, spoon the ceviche into chilled glassware or shallow bowls, drizzle a tiny extra splash of chipotle oil on top, and garnish with toasted coconut flakes and a lime wedge on the side.
- 9. Enjoy immediately while the fish is fresh and the flavors are bright.