Avocado with Groundnut Dressing

Avocado with Groundnut Dressing Recipe - Chad and Ghana Cuisine

Region / culture: Chad, Ghana | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

This Avocado with Groundnut Dressing recipe is a delightful fusion of creamy avocados and the rich, nutty flavor of peanuts, enhanced with a blend of spices. It's a simple yet sophisticated dish that can serve as a refreshing appetizer, a healthy snack, or a unique side. The combination of textures and flavors makes this recipe a memorable culinary experience.

History

The use of avocados in cooking dates back to the Aztec civilization, while groundnuts (peanuts) have been a staple in various cuisines around the world, particularly in African and Asian dishes. This recipe brings together these two ingredients in a modern fusion that celebrates their rich histories and cultural significance.

Ingredients

2 ripe avocados
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp peanuts
0.5 tsp sweet or hot paprika (to taste)
0.5 tsp cinnamon
cayenne pepper (to taste)
salt (to taste)
fresh chives for garnish

How to prepare

Peel the avocados, remove the pit, and cube the flesh.
Place the cubed avocado in a bowl and add lemon juice.
Grind the peanuts until you have small chunks.
Sprinkle the ground peanuts and spices over the avocado cubes and gently toss them together.
Garnish with chopped chives.

Variations

For a twist, try adding diced mango for a sweet contrast or sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy addition. You can also substitute peanuts with almonds or cashews for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture, choose avocados that are ripe but still firm. When grinding the peanuts, aim for small chunks rather than a fine powder to add a pleasant crunch. Adding the lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also helps prevent the avocado from browning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Avocado with Groundnut Dressing as a standalone snack, atop a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing salad, or as a unique side dish to complement grilled meats or fish.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the gentle tossing of the avocado cubes with the groundnut dressing to ensure each piece is evenly coated without becoming mushy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're allergic to peanuts, consider using sunflower seeds or almonds as a substitute. Lemon juice can be replaced with lime juice for a slightly different citrus note.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the groundnut mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. Add to the freshly cut avocado and lemon juice just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Serve in a clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the dish. Garnish with extra chives or a sprinkle of paprika for an elegant finish.

Pairing Recommendations

This Avocado with Groundnut Dressing pairs beautifully with crisp white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling, which complement the creaminess of the avocado and the nutty dressing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This dish is best enjoyed fresh and does not store well due to the nature of avocados. If necessary, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day, though some browning may occur.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this Avocado with Groundnut Dressing contains approximately 234 calories, making it a nutrient-dense option that can fit into a variety of dietary plans.

Carbohydrates

A serving of this dish contains approximately 12 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the avocados. The carbohydrates in avocados are mostly fiber, making this a great low-net-carb option.

Fats

Avocados are known for their healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health. The addition of peanuts increases the fat content, adding both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. A serving contains roughly 21 grams of fat.

Proteins

This recipe provides about 4 grams of protein per serving, coming from both the avocados and peanuts. While not high in protein, it can contribute to your daily protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

Avocados are a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin K, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and potassium. Peanuts add to the nutritional profile with magnesium, phosphorus, and B vitamins.

Alergens

The primary allergen in this recipe is peanuts, a common allergen. Those with a peanut allergy should avoid this dish or substitute peanuts with a non-allergenic nut or seed.

Summary

Overall, this recipe is a healthy option rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. It's low in carbohydrates and provides a moderate amount of calories, making it suitable for those following a variety of dietary patterns.

Summary

This Avocado with Groundnut Dressing recipe is a delightful blend of creamy, nutty, and spicy flavors, packed with nutrition and easy to prepare. It's a versatile dish that can elevate any meal, offering a unique taste experience that's sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe is still vivid in my mind. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Nigeria. I remember it was a hot summer day, and I had gone to visit my friend, Amina, who lived down the road. As I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the most incredible aroma – a rich, nutty scent that made my mouth water.

Curious, I asked Amina what she was cooking, and she smiled and told me she was making avocado with groundnut dressing. I had never heard of such a dish before, but the combination of creamy avocado and savory groundnut intrigued me. I watched as she peeled and sliced the avocados, then mixed up a simple dressing of groundnuts, onions, tomatoes, and a dash of chili powder.

As Amina handed me a plate of the avocado with groundnut dressing, I took a bite and was instantly transported to flavor heaven. The creamy avocado paired perfectly with the crunchy groundnut dressing, and the slight heat from the chili powder added a nice kick. I was hooked.

From that day on, I begged Amina to teach me how to make the dish. She was happy to share her recipe with me, and we spent many afternoons together in her kitchen, chopping, mixing, and tasting until I had mastered the art of making avocado with groundnut dressing.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times for my family and friends, always receiving rave reviews. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness or a sprinkle of cilantro for freshness. But the core of the dish remains the same – ripe avocados, creamy groundnuts, and a hint of spice.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day in Amina's kitchen, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary journey that led me to discover avocado with groundnut dressing. It has become a staple in my recipe book, a dish that never fails to satisfy and impress.

I have passed the recipe down to my children and grandchildren, just as Amina passed it down to me. And I hope that they, too, will cherish the memories of learning to make this delicious dish and the joy of sharing it with loved ones.

So the next time you find yourself craving something new and exciting, why not give avocado with groundnut dressing a try? I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe this simple dish will become a beloved favorite in your own family for generations to come.