Instructions:
- Mash the Avocados:
- In a medium bowl, lightly mash the ripe avocados with a fork. Aim for a creamy yet slightly chunky texture.
- Add the Ingredients:
- Stir in the lime juice, chopped tomato, minced jalapeño, garlic, red onion, and cilantro. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Season:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with coarse salt and ground pepper.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with chips, vegetables, crackers, or alongside tacos, grilled chicken, or any dish that could use a fresh, zesty addition.
Tips for Perfect Guacamole:
Ripening Avocados:
If your avocados aren’t ripe yet, speed up the process by placing them in a brown paper bag with a banana or apple. The ethylene gas emitted by these fruits helps ripen the avocado in a day or two.
Preventing Browning:
Guacamole browns quickly because of the avocado’s reaction with air. To prevent this:
- Store in an airtight container with as little surface area as possible.
- Add a thin layer of water, lime juice, or lemon juice on top before sealing the container and refrigerating.
- If browning occurs, simply scrape off the top layer and enjoy the fresh guacamole underneath.
Customization:
- No Tomato? Skip it if you prefer a simpler guacamole.
- Adjust Spice: Use more or less jalapeño to control the heat, or substitute it with a milder chili or bell pepper.
- Cilantro Substitute: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley works well as a substitute, or add a pinch of ground cumin to give a unique twist.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is traditional guacamole made of? Traditional guacamole typically includes avocado, onion, jalapeño, tomato, lime juice, salt, and cilantro. Some variations may add extras like garlic or hard-boiled eggs, but this basic version is tried and true.
Should you leave lime juice out of guacamole? Some people believe lime juice overpowers the avocado flavor, while others feel it enhances the freshness. If you’re unsure, try making a batch without lime juice to see which version you prefer.
What can you put in guacamole instead of cilantro? If you don’t have cilantro (or dislike it), parsley is a good substitute. You can also try a combination of parsley and a pinch of ground cumin to create a similar flavor profile.
