How to Make Shrimp Ceviche with Fried Plantains

Hello, food explorers and kitchen adventurers! Welcome to Mangoes and Palm Trees, where we blend global flavors with family traditions.

Today, we’re excited to share our recipe for shrimp ceviche with fried plantains. During our travels through Latin America, we savored this dish at a seaside market.

The tangy bite of citrus-marinated shrimp paired perfectly with crispy plantains—a taste we couldn’t forget! Back in our sunny kitchen, we’ve crafted this dish to capture that magic.

It combines fresh seafood, zesty citrus, and a satisfying crunch, making it an ideal appetizer or light meal for summer gatherings or any time you crave coastal vibes.

For more on ceviche’s rich history, check out Wikipedia's ceviche page. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Why Shrimp Ceviche with Fried Plantains?

Shrimp ceviche offers a refreshing twist on seafood, “cooked” by citrus juice rather than heat, a method cherished in coastal regions.

Paired with fried plantains, it balances the tanginess with a sweet, crispy texture, creating a dish that’s both light and satisfying.

We discovered this combo at a vibrant market, where vendors served it with a smile, showcasing Latin American hospitality.

It’s not just a meal—it’s a taste of adventure you can bring to your table anytime.

Ingredients for Shrimp Ceviche and Fried Plantains

Here’s what you’ll need to create this shrimp ceviche with fried plantains, inspired by coastal flavors:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined	1 pound	Use fresh for best flavor; frozen works if thawed.
Limes, juiced	4-5	Freshly squeezed for zesty kick.
Red onion, finely chopped	1	Adds crunch and color.
Tomatoes, diced	2	Ripe for sweetness.
Jalapeno pepper, seeds removed, finely chopped	1	Adjust for heat preference.
Fresh cilantro, chopped	1 bunch	Brings freshness.
Salt and pepper	To taste	Season as you go.
Ripe plantains (learn more)	2-3	Yellow with black spots for sweetness.
Vegetable oil	For frying	Neutral oil like canola works best.

Love seafood? Check out our shrimp storage tips for more.

The Cultural Significance of Ceviche

Ceviche is a beloved dish across Latin America, with roots tracing back to pre-Columbian coastal communities.

It’s traditionally “cooked” by marinating seafood in citrus juice, a practical method before modern refrigeration, preserving freshness.

Fried plantains, a staple in tropical cuisines, add a sweet crunch, reflecting the region’s love for balancing flavors.

Our family’s market experience wasn’t just a meal—it was a taste of history, connecting us to centuries of culinary tradition.

Bringing this dish home lets you savor that same coastal heritage.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Shrimp

Start with fresh shrimp for the best ceviche:

1. Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. For safety tips, see FDA's seafood guidelines.
2. Chop into bite-sized pieces and place in a mixing bowl.
3. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over the shrimp.

Tip: Wear gloves when chopping jalapenos to avoid irritation.

Marinating the Shrimp

Let the citrus do its magic:

1. Squeeze juice from 4-5 limes over the shrimp, ensuring full coverage. The acidity “cooks” the shrimp by denaturing proteins—learn more at Wikipedia's denaturation page.
2. Add chopped red onion, diced tomatoes, and jalapeno pepper.
3. Mix gently and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing and Frying the Plantains

Get that crispy crunch:

1. Peel plantains and slice into ¼-inch thick rounds.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Fry plantain slices until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
4. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

Tip: Use ripe plantains (yellow with black spots) for sweetness.

Assembling the Shrimp Ceviche

Bring it all together:

1. Remove marinated shrimp from the fridge and add chopped cilantro.
2. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed.

Serving and Garnishing

Present it beautifully:

1. Transfer shrimp ceviche to a serving dish or bowls.
2. Arrange fried plantain slices around the ceviche.
3. Garnish with extra cilantro leaves for freshness and appeal.

Tip: Serve with tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.

Variations to Try

Customize your shrimp ceviche with fried plantains:

• Baked Plantains: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes for a lighter option.
• Different Citrus: Try lemon or orange juice for a unique twist.
• Spicy Boost: Add more jalapeno or chili flakes for heat.
• Vegetarian: Swap shrimp with diced avocado or tofu.

Explore more seafood with our Chilean recipes.

Pairing Suggestions

Elevate your ceviche experience:

• Cold Beer: A crisp lager balances the tanginess.
• Fresh Salad: Pair with mango salsa for sweetness.
• Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up ceviche.
• Limeade: Refreshing and complements the citrus.

Troubleshooting Tips

Perfect your dish with these fixes:

• Shrimp Too Rubbery? Don’t marinate beyond 1 hour—citrus overcooks it.
• Plantains Soggy? Fry at high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan.
• Too Spicy? Reduce jalapeno or serve with a cooling dip.
• Not Tangy Enough? Add an extra lime for zest.

Shrimp Ceviche with Fried Plantains FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw thoroughly and pat dry first. See USDA's thawing guidelines.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Try cucumber, bell peppers, or avocados for variety.

Is there a vegetarian version?

Swap shrimp with firm tofu or chickpeas for a veggie twist.

Can I make it ahead?

Best fresh, but refrigerate up to a few hours. Texture may change—see USDA's storage chart.

What are alternative garnishes?

Use green onions, radishes, or chili flakes for extra flair.

Can I use other citrus?

Yes, lemon or orange juice adds a unique tang.

Conclusion

This shrimp ceviche with fried plantains brings coastal flavors to your kitchen—fresh, tangy, and crunchy.

Inspired by our Latin American travels, it’s a perfect appetizer or light meal.

Explore more coastal dishes like our Chilean recipes.

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Happy cooking—share your twist in the comments below!