What's the Best Shrimp to Use for Ceviche?
Choosing the Right Shrimp for Ceviche: A Buyer's Guide
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Discovery Chepe Id-577-GAS
Published in
02-03-2025

Photo: tootsweetcarole
Before we dive into the ideal choice, it's important to know the most common types of shrimp used to prepare ceviche:
1- Sea shrimp: It is the most appreciated for its intense flavor and firm texture. It is usually more expensive, but its quality justifies it.
2- Estuary shrimp: It has a milder flavor and a more delicate texture than sea shrimp. It is an excellent option if you are looking for a lighter ceviche.
3- Farm shrimp: It is the most affordable in terms of price, but its flavor can be less intense than that of wild shrimp. Still, it is a good alternative if you are looking for something inexpensive.
4- River shrimp: Although less common in traditional ceviches, river shrimp provides a sweet flavor and a soft texture. If you find it, do not hesitate to try it!

Ceviche Shrimp: Which Type is Best?
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Fresh vs. Frozen: Which is the Best Option?
Fresh shrimp is key to a delicious ceviche. Ideally, you should use fresh shrimp, which have a mild sea smell and firm, translucent flesh. However, if you don't have access to fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp can be a good alternative as long as they have been properly frozen and show no signs of previous thawing.
Tips and Recommendations for a Perfect Shrimp Ceviche
a) Freshness is paramount: Make sure the shrimp are fresh or frozen in optimal conditions.
b) Clean the shrimp thoroughly: Remove the head, legs, shell, and intestinal vein (the black line that runs along the back of the shrimp).
c) Cut the shrimp into pieces: The size will depend on your personal taste, but ideally they should be medium-sized pieces so they marinate well.
d) Marinate the shrimp in lemon: The acid in the lemon will "cook" the shrimp and give them a fresh, citrusy flavor.
e) Add the fresh ingredients: Red onion, tomato, cilantro, chili (optional), and avocado are the perfect companions for shrimp in the ceviche.
f) Serve the ceviche immediately: To enjoy its freshness and flavor to the fullest, it is best to serve the ceviche freshly prepared.
The Best Shrimp for Ceviche: Your Personal Choice
Ultimately, the best shrimp for ceviche is the one you like best. If you prefer an intense flavor and a firm texture, sea shrimp is your ideal choice. If you are looking for something lighter and cheaper, estuary or farm shrimp are excellent alternatives. And if you want to try something different, try river shrimp!
The important thing is to choose fresh, good quality shrimp, follow the preparation tips and enjoy this refreshing and flavorful dish.
Bon appetit!
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