6 Person
20 Min
24 Min
44 Min
Ceviche is a very popular dish in Ecuador. It is prepared with seafood such as shrimp, lobster, or fish. Red onion, lime, and cilantro are the main flavors in this dish. It is traditionally served cold alongside fried plantain chips, corn nuts, or popcorn.
Ecuadorian cuisine is diverse, varying with altitude, and associated agricultural conditions. Beef, chicken, and seafood are popular in the coastal regions and are typically served with carbohydrate-rich foods, such as rice accompanied with lentils, pasta, or plantain. Whereas in the mountainous regions pork, chicken, beef and cuy (guinea pig) are popular and are often served with rice, corn, or potatoes. Popular street food in mountainous regions is hornado, consisting of potatoes served with roasted pig.
Ceviche is one of the most iconic and widely consumed dishes in Ecuador, particularly along the coastal regions where seafood is abundant. While ceviche is enjoyed throughout Latin America, Ecuadorian ceviche is distinctive for its slightly soupy consistency and the inclusion of ingredients such as tomato, orange juice, and ketchup alongside lime, red onion, and cilantro. Traditionally served cold, the dish reflects Ecuador’s strong coastal food culture and reliance on fresh shrimp and fish. Ceviche has deep historical roots, with indigenous coastal communities preparing citrus-marinated seafood long before Spanish colonization. Over time, European influences introduced new ingredients and variations, shaping the modern Ecuadorian version. Today, ceviche is eaten year-round in homes, markets, and seaside restaurants, commonly accompanied by fried plantain chips, corn nuts, or popcorn, highlighting the country’s balance of fresh seafood and carbohydrate-rich sides.