How to Make Mexican Seafood with Pickled Onions

Mexican cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, and seafood plays a starring role in many traditional dishes. One way to elevate your Mexican seafood is by adding pickled onions, which provide a tangy contrast that complements the richness of fish and shellfish. In this article, we’ll explore how to make delicious Mexican seafood dishes using pickled onions.

Ingredients for Pickled Onions

To begin, you will need the following ingredients for pickled onions:

  • 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 1 cup water
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • Optional: 1-2 cloves garlic, crushed; spices like black peppercorns or bay leaves

Making Pickled Onions

1. In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.

2. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.

3. Place the sliced onions in a jar or bowl and pour the hot vinegar mixture over them. If using, add garlic or spices for extra flavor.

4. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before sealing it. Refrigerate for at least an hour, but preferably overnight for the best flavor.

Popular Mexican Seafood Dishes

Now that you have your pickled onions ready, let’s explore some Mexican seafood dishes that pair perfectly with them.

1. Ceviche

Ceviche is a classic Mexican dish made from fresh fish or shrimp marinated in citrus juices. To serve:

  • Choose fresh fish like tilapia or shrimp. Cut into small pieces and marinate in lime juice for 30 minutes to an hour.
  • Add diced tomatoes, cilantro, jalapeño, and avocado. Stir in a generous amount of pickled onions before serving.

2. Fish Tacos

Fish tacos are another favorite that can be enhanced with pickled onions. For a quick recipe:

  • Season white fish fillets (like cod) with spices and pan-fry until cooked through.
  • Toss the cooked fish in warm corn tortillas and top with shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a generous serving of pickled onions.

3. Shrimp Aguachile

Shrimp aguachile is a spicy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for hot weather. Here’s how to prepare it:

  • Marinate raw shrimp in lime juice with diced cucumber, cilantro, jalapeño, and sea salt for about 15 minutes.
  • Serve it chilled, topped with pickled onions and avocado slices for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving and Enjoying Your Dishes

Once you’ve prepared your Mexican seafood dishes, it's time to dig in. The pickled onions add a tangy crunch that complements the tender seafood beautifully. You can also serve them as a side for grilled fish or alongside soup like caldo de pescado for an exciting twist.

Conclusion

Making Mexican seafood with pickled onions is an easy way to enhance your meals with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to enjoy a taste of Mexico at home, these dishes are sure to impress.

Don't forget to store leftover pickled onions in the refrigerator; they can last for up to two weeks, ready to brighten up any dish!