Making great ceviche is all about freshness. Use the best shrimp you can get, and don’t skip the quick onion marinade — it takes away the harsh bite while keeping a nice crunch. If you like it spicier, add more ají amarillo or a dash of hot sauce. Always taste the marinade before adding the shrimp — it should be bright, tangy, and slightly sweet.
If you’re used to Mexican ceviche, Ecuador’s version might surprise you. Instead of letting lime juice “cook” the shrimp, Ecuadorians briefly boil or poach the shrimp before marinating it. The result is a dish served in a light, citrusy tomato broth — almost like a cold shrimp cocktail soup. Mexican ceviche, on the other hand, is drier, spicier, and usually eaten on crunchy tostadas rather than with a spoon. Think of Ecuadorian ceviche as refreshing and juicy, while Mexican ceviche is bright and punchy.