Guacamole is a delicious and versatile dip made from ripe avocados. It’s perfect for dipping tortilla chips, adding to tacos, or serving as a condiment for various dishes. Here’s a classic guacamole recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe avocados
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 Roma (plum) tomatoes, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeds removed and finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1-2 limes, juiced
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat
Instructions:
1. Start by cutting the avocados in half. Remove the pits and scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl.
2. Use a fork to mash the avocados to your desired level of creaminess. Some people prefer it chunky, while others like it smoother. If you like it chunky, leave some small chunks of avocado.
3. Add the finely diced onion, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped jalapeño peppers, and chopped cilantro to the mashed avocados.
4. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture. You can start with one lime and add more if needed. Lime juice not only adds flavour but also helps prevent the guacamole from turning brown.
5. Sprinkle in the salt, ground cumin, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Adjust the seasonings to taste. You may need more salt or lime juice depending on your preferences.
6. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Taste the guacamole and adjust the seasonings if necessary. If you prefer it spicier, you can add more chopped jalapeño or cayenne pepper.
7. Cover the guacamole with plastic wrap or a lid, making sure it touches the surface of the guacamole to minimize air exposure. This helps prevent browning.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavours to meld together.
9. When ready to serve, give the guacamole a quick stir and garnish with additional cilantro leaves, if desired.
10. Serve with tortilla chips, as a topping for tacos, burritos, or alongside your favourite Mexican dishes.
Enjoy!
Guacamole is best when freshly made, but if you need to store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be sure to press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole to minimize oxidation and browning. Enjoy your homemade guacamole!
