Peruvian Ceviche

What it really is

Peruvian ceviche is a cold fish preparation in which fresh fish is dressed shortly before serving with citrus, chilli and aromatics. It is closely associated with Peru's Pacific coast, though recipes and accompaniments vary across the country.

The fish is cut into pieces and combined with lime juice, sliced red onion, salt and chilli, often ají. The acidic dressing changes the fish's texture and appearance, but this is not a cooked or shelf-stable fish dish: citrus does not make raw fish equivalent to heat-cooked fish for food-safety purposes. The time between dressing and serving matters, and the exact cut, acidity and chilli vary. Some cooks include coriander; it is not required for every version.

Peruvian servings are often accompanied by cooked sweet potato and large-kernel corn. These add sweetness and starch against the sharp, salty dressing. The liquid left in the bowl is sometimes called leche de tigre, but it is a seasoned citrus-fish dressing, not dairy milk. The term and its use vary, so it should not be presented as a fixed ingredient or a separate recipe here.

How it's served

• Serve cold and prepare close to service; keep raw fish under appropriate refrigeration and follow local food-safety rules.
• Pair with cooked sweet potato and corn when following a common Peruvian coastal presentation.
• Keep the fish, dressing and accompaniments distinct enough for diners to understand what is raw and what is cooked.

How to write it on the menu

• Name the fish species and say clearly that it is served raw and citrus-dressed.
• List chilli and any optional herbs or additional seafood actually used in the restaurant's recipe.
• Identify accompaniments such as sweet potato or corn; never imply citrus treatment removes raw-fish risks.

Nutrition is a low-confidence estimate per 100 g of a representative fish-and-lime serving; it excludes variable sides. Fish is inherent to this version. Confirm the actual recipe and cross-contact controls before making allergen or safety claims.