February 18, 2010

Guacamole – Sometimes simple is better

I adore avocados. I love the texture, the taste, and the color.  I am happy eating plain slices of avocado, but given my love of garlic, tomatoes, and onions, guacamole is a big favorite of mine.

I have tried many different recipes over the years, some complicated, some less so.  I ended up finding what is for me the perfect balance of flavors and textures by using as few ingredients as possible.

Here is how I do it.  First, the ingredients:

  • 2 avocados, peeled and chopped
  • juice of 1/2 a lemon
  • 1/2 medium tomato, chopped
  • 1/4 medium onion, diced
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • fresh ground black pepper, to taste.
First, the lovely avocado, with lemon juice added once all is in the bowl
Next, 1/2 a tomato, chopped
Next, 1/2 a tomato, chopped

Then, some diced onion - a quarter or more
Then, about 1/4 of a medium onion, large diced
2-3 cloves of garlic, minced will do the trick
two or three cloves of garlic, minced, does the trick

Mix and mash, leaving some lumps and add the ground black pepper
Mix and mash, leaving some lumps, and finish with fresh ground black pepper

So simple, so easy. The flavor is  clean, fresh, and zesty,and I find the “fork-mashed with some lumps left” texture to be more satisfying than guacamole that is pureed.

If you want some complexity, try adding some cumin or cayenne pepper.  And, for a bit more richness, add some olive oil.  But, I really enjoy the simple version.  And, I NEVER add salt.  I did once and found it brought out a bitter flavor, which surprised me, since salt can bring out sweetness.

In any case, if you are new to making guacamole, or have been using a more complicated recipe for years, give this one a try.  I bet you’ll like it.

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Filed Under: Appetizer, Sauce, Gravy, or Condiment, Uncategorized