Tropical Seviche

Tropical Seviche Recipe from Panama with Shrimp, Lemon Juice, Onions, and More

Region / culture: Panama | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tropical Seviche is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. This dish is made with fresh shrimp, lemon juice, onions, green pepper, parsley, tomato, tarragon vinegar, oregano, and pepper. It is a great dish to enjoy during the summer months or as a light appetizer.

History

Seviche, also known as ceviche, is a popular dish in Latin American cuisine. It is typically made with raw fish or seafood that is marinated in citrus juices, such as lemon or lime juice, which "cooks" the seafood. The origins of seviche can be traced back to Peru, where it is believed to have been created by the Inca civilization.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) small shrimp
0.67 cup fresh lemon juice
6 tbsp minced onions
0.5 cup minced green pepper
0.25 cup minced fresh parsley
1 large tomato, peeled and chopped
1 tbsp tarragon vinegar
0.5 tsp oregano
salt and pepper to taste

How to prepare

Clean the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they turn pink.
Drain the shrimp and place them in a covered bowl with lemon juice.
Cover the bowl and let it sit for 1 hour, stirring two or three times.
Drain the liquid from the bowl and discard it.
Combine the shrimp with the remaining ingredients.
Mix well and refrigerate for 1.5 hours.
For variety, you can also add half an avocado to the mixture.

Variations

Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweeter flavor.
Substitute the shrimp with diced fish or scallops for a different twist.
Add diced jalapenos for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.

- Be sure to drain the shrimp well after cooking to remove excess moisture.

- Marinating the shrimp in lemon juice helps to tenderize the shrimp and infuse it with flavor.

- Refrigerate the seviche for at least 1.5 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Tropical Seviche with tortilla chips or on a bed of lettuce for a light and refreshing meal. It can also be served as a topping for tacos or tostadas.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the shrimp just until they turn pink to prevent them from becoming tough.

- Marinating the shrimp in lemon juice helps to "cook" the shrimp and infuse it with flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute the tarragon vinegar with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.

- Use red or yellow bell peppers in place of green peppers for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Tropical Seviche can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to mix well before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Tropical Seviche in a chilled glass bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro. You can also serve it in individual martini glasses for a fun and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Tropical Seviche with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. It also pairs well with a light beer or a refreshing cocktail, such as a mojito or margarita.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of the Tropical Seviche in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze as the texture of the shrimp may change. Serve chilled.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 150 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 8g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 2g per serving

Saturated Fat: 0g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 30% of daily value per serving

Iron: 15% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains shellfish

Summary

Tropical Seviche is a low-calorie dish that is high in protein and vitamin C. It is a healthy and delicious option for a light meal or appetizer.

Summary

Tropical Seviche is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a summer meal or appetizer. Made with fresh shrimp, lemon juice, and a variety of herbs and vegetables, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrients. Enjoy this dish with tortilla chips, on a bed of lettuce, or as a topping for tacos for a delicious and healthy meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It was a hot summer day, and I had decided to take a trip to the local farmer's market to pick up some fresh fruits and vegetables. As I was browsing the stalls, I came across a vendor selling all sorts of exotic fruits from the tropics. The vibrant colors and sweet smells drew me in, and I found myself chatting with the vendor about all the different fruits he had for sale.

As we talked, he mentioned a dish called Tropical Seviche that he used to enjoy back in his home country. He described it as a refreshing and tangy seafood salad made with a mix of fresh fruits and vegetables. Intrigued, I asked him if he had a recipe for it, and to my surprise, he pulled out a worn piece of paper from his pocket and handed it to me with a smile.

I couldn't wait to get home and try out this new recipe. I gathered all the ingredients I needed – fresh shrimp, mango, avocado, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a hint of jalapeno for a bit of kick. I carefully followed the instructions on the paper, chopping and mixing everything together until it formed a colorful and fragrant salad.

The first bite was like a burst of sunshine in my mouth. The sweetness of the mango and avocado paired perfectly with the tangy lime juice and spicy jalapeno. The shrimp added a savory element that tied everything together beautifully. I couldn't believe how delicious and refreshing this dish was – it was like a taste of the tropics right in my own kitchen.

I made the Tropical Seviche for my family that evening, and they were blown away by how tasty it was. They asked me where I had learned to make such a unique and flavorful dish, and I proudly told them about the farmer's market vendor and his secret recipe. From that day on, the Tropical Seviche became a staple in our household, especially during the hot summer months when we craved something light and refreshing.

Over the years, I have made the Tropical Seviche for countless gatherings and parties, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. Each time I make it, I think back to that fateful day at the farmer's market and how a chance encounter led me to discover this wonderful dish.

I have since added my own twist to the recipe, sometimes swapping out the shrimp for scallops or using different fruits and herbs for a new flavor profile. But no matter how I choose to make it, the Tropical Seviche always brings a smile to my face and reminds me of that special moment when I stumbled upon a hidden gem that would become a cherished recipe in my collection.

As I pass this recipe down to future generations, I hope they too will appreciate the magic of discovering new flavors and dishes that bring people together. Food has a way of connecting us to different cultures and memories, and the Tropical Seviche will always hold a special place in my heart as a reminder of the joy and wonder that can come from trying something new.