Appetizer · Seafood · Summer Recipes · Latin American

Coconut Lime Ceviche with Crispy Plantain Chips

Brighten your summer menu with this vibrant Coconut Lime Ceviche, featuring tender white fish cured in citrus and finished with creamy coconut milk and crunchy plantain chips.

5(245 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Coconut Lime Ceviche with Crispy Plantain Chips — Latin American Appetizer served and photographed from above
Prep
25 min
Cook
5 min
Difficulty
Easy
Serves
4

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Before you start

  1. 1

    Prep ahead

    Ensure the fish is kept on ice or in the coldest part of the refrigerator until ready to slice.

  2. 2

    Prep ahead

    Slice the red onions and soak them in ice water for 10 minutes to reduce their sharp bite.

  3. 3

    Prep ahead

    Place the coconut milk in the fridge at least 2 hours before using to ensure it is cold.

How to Make Coconut Lime Ceviche with Crispy Plantain Chips

Total time: 30 min · Yields 4 servings

  1. 1

    Slice and Fry the Plantains

    Peel the plantains and use a mandoline to slice them into very thin rounds, about 1 mm thick. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 180 C. Fry the slices in batches for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and immediately season with flaky salt and tajin.

  2. 2

    Cure the Fish

    In a large glass or ceramic bowl, combine the cubed fish, lime juice, and sea salt. Gently toss to coat. Let the fish sit in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes. The fish is ready when the exterior turns opaque but the center remains slightly translucent.

  3. 3

    Introduce Aromatics

    Drain the sliced red onions and pat them dry. Add the onions, minced chili, and black pepper to the fish mixture. Toss gently to combine all the flavors while keeping the fish intact.

  4. 4

    Add Coconut and Herbs

    Stir in the chilled coconut milk and the chopped cilantro. Use a spoon to gently fold the liquid over the fish. The coconut milk will create a beautiful, creamy tiger's milk (leche de tigre) sauce.

  5. 5

    Final Fold and Chill

    Add the diced avocado to the bowl. Give it one final, very gentle toss so the avocado remains in distinct pieces. Taste and add a touch more salt or lime if needed. Chill for another 5 minutes before serving.

Chef's Tips

  • Always use a non-reactive bowl (glass or stainless steel) as the lime juice will react with aluminum or copper.
  • Do not over-marinate the fish. If it sits in the lime juice for longer than 30 minutes, it will become tough and dry.
  • For the crispiest plantain chips, do not crowd the frying pan; cook them in small batches.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, leave the seeds in the chili.

What to Serve with Coconut Lime Ceviche with Crispy Plantain Chips

The garlic butter sauce is the star — pick sides that soak it up or balance the richness.

  • Serve in martini glasses for a sophisticated dinner party starter.
  • Place the bowl in a larger bowl filled with crushed ice to keep it cold during a buffet.
  • Offer extra hot sauce on the side for guests who like high heat.

Recipe Variations

Once you've mastered the base recipe, try these popular twists.

Variation

Add 100 g of cooked cold shrimp for a mixed seafood version.

Variation

Swap plantain chips for taro chips or thick-cut corn tortilla chips.

Variation

Stir in 50 g of finely diced fresh mango for a sweeter tropical profile.

Storage & Reheating

Ceviche is best enjoyed immediately. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 12 hours, though the texture of the fish will change. Plantain chips can be stored in a dry, airtight bag at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Further reading

Frequently asked questions

What is the best fish for ceviche?

Lean, firm white fish like sea bass, snapper, grouper, or halibut are best. Avoid oily fish like mackerel or salmon unless you want a very different flavor profile.

Is the fish in ceviche raw?

Technically, yes, it is not heated, but the citric acid in the lime juice denatures the proteins in the fish, 'cooking' it until it is opaque and firm.

Can I use frozen fish?

Yes, high-quality frozen fish that has been properly thawed in the fridge is often safer than 'fresh' fish that has been sitting out, as freezing kills parasites.

Why is my ceviche rubbery?

This usually happens if the fish was left in the lime juice for too long. 15 to 20 minutes is usually the sweet spot for small cubes.

Can I make the plantain chips in an air fryer?

Yes. Lightly spray the slices with oil and air fry at 190 C for 8 to 10 minutes, tossing halfway through, until they are golden and crisp.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients in this specific coconut lime ceviche and plantain chip recipe are naturally gluten-free.

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