"Fish is one of the best canvases for cooking. There are many unexpected fish and fruit pairings that work surprisingly well. This works in part because many fruits are acidic and fish pairs wonderfully with acidity. Acid changes the protein in fish, which is why you can make a classic ceviche just by marinating fish in it. This process is essentially cooking without heat. Even with cooked fish, acid enhances the often subtle flavor."
"Cactus pears are not native to the Mediterranean. They originated in the Americas and were an important crop for the Aztec people. The capital city of the Aztec Empire was Tenochtitlan, which roughly translates to "place where cactus pear grows on stone," according to The Holland Center of Scottsdale, Arizona. They were an important food for the Aztecs, and they have since been exported and naturalized around the world, including in the Mediterranean."
Fish is an excellent canvas for cooking and benefits from unexpected fruit pairings because many fruits provide acidity that enhances flavor and alters fish protein. Acid can "cook" raw fish in ceviche and, when used with cooked fish, brightens subtle flavors and removes lingering fishiness. Cactus fruit is mildly acidic and is best used alongside already marinated fish, offering natural sweetness that balances tart marinades while adding a distinct taste. Cactus pears originated in the Americas and served as an important Aztec crop; they have been exported and naturalized globally, including in the Mediterranean, where they complement citrus, fresh herbs, and olive oil.
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