Not with heat. The lime juice changes the proteins so the fish turns white and firm, but it's still raw.

Which is spicier, ceviche or crudo?

Ceviche, usually. Peruvian and Mexican versions often have chili, red onion and cilantro. Crudo is more about oil, citrus and salt.

Ceviche vs crudo: what's the difference?

Ceviche is raw seafood marinated in lime juice until it turns firm and opaque, while crudo is raw fish dressed just before serving, so it stays soft and silky.

Ceviche

Very light

Indulgent

Subtle

Big punch

Mellow

Zingy

Sour, zippy and fresh, with lime, onion and a bit of chili.

Crudo

Very light

Indulgent

Subtle

Big punch

Mellow

Zingy

Silky raw fish with olive oil, citrus and salt.

The real difference

In ceviche, lime juice works on the fish for minutes to hours, turning it white and firm, almost like it was cooked. It usually comes with red onion, cilantro and chili. Crudo is sliced and dressed right before it goes out, so the fish stays raw, soft and glossy, with olive oil adding richness.

Side by side

CevicheCrudo

FromLatin America, especially Peru and MexicoItalian-style

CitrusLots, marinated in itA squeeze, just before serving

TextureFirm, opaqueSoft, silky, raw

TastesSour, zippy, often spicyDelicate, briny, olive oil

Which to order

Order ceviche if you want something sour, punchy and refreshing.
Order crudo if you want delicate raw fish with a light touch.

Quick questions

Is ceviche cooked?: Not with heat. The lime juice changes the proteins so the fish turns white and firm, but it's still raw.
Which is spicier, ceviche or crudo?: Ceviche, usually. Peruvian and Mexican versions often have chili, red onion and cilantro. Crudo is more about oil, citrus and salt.