A coastal Yucatecan specialty, Pescado en Xtabentún marries the freshest white fish with xtabentún, the peninsula’s honey-and-anise liqueur made from the nectar of the xtabentún flower. The liqueur lends the classic lime-and-sour-orange ceviche a haunting herbal sweetness. It is a dish that tastes like a Mérida evening.
Pescado en Xtabentún
A coastal Yucatecan specialty, Pescado en Xtabentún marries the freshest white fish with xtabentún, the peninsula’s honey-and-anise liqueur made from the nectar of the xtabentún flower.

Step by stepInstructions
- Toss the fish cubes with the lime and sour orange juices and a pinch of salt; marinate in the refrigerator for 15 to 25 minutes, until the fish turns opaque.
- Drain off most of the juice, then add the onion, tomato, cilantro and habanero, and season with salt.
- Pour the xtabentún over the mixture and fold gently; rest for 5 minutes so the liqueur's anise and honey notes meld.
- Serve chilled on tostadas with slices of avocado.
💡 Chef tips & storage
Use sushi-grade fish — the lime 'cooks' it, but freshness is everything. If xtabentún is hard to find, substitute an anise liqueur with a teaspoon of honey.

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