Award-winning Guacamole

Guacamole Recipe - Award-Winning Mexican Dish with California Avocados

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Servings: 10-12

Introduction

Guacamole, a vibrant and flavorful dip, has transcended its Mexican origins to become a beloved international staple at parties, gatherings, and weeknight dinners alike. This award-winning guacamole recipe elevates the traditional dish with a perfect balance of creamy avocados, sharp onions, tangy lime juice, and a blend of spices and fresh ingredients that promise to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a guacamole aficionado or a newcomer to this delightful dish, this recipe is designed to guide you through creating a memorable culinary experience.

History

The roots of guacamole trace back to the Aztecs in what is now Mexico, with the original recipe comprising only mashed avocados. The name "guacamole" itself derives from the Nahuatl words āhuacamolli, which translates to "avocado sauce." Over the centuries, as guacamole traveled across borders and cultures, various ingredients such as onions, tomatoes, and lime juice were added, enriching its flavor and texture. This award-winning recipe is a testament to the dish's evolution, incorporating a blend of traditional and contemporary ingredients to celebrate its rich history.

Ingredients

15 ripe medium california avocados, seeded and peeled
1 large onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, crushed
2 tomatoes, diced
1 lb (454 g) monterey jack cheese, grated
5 green chilies, diced
1 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
0.5 cup fresh lime juice
1 tbsp Lawry's seasoned salt

How to prepare

In a large mixing bowl, coarsely mash the avocados, leaving some chunks.
Add the remaining ingredients and mix them together until well blended.
Note: To store the guacamole, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the guacamole and refrigerate.

Variations

To customize this guacamole to your taste, consider adding ingredients such as corn, black beans, or even fruits like mango or pineapple for a sweet twist. Adjusting the level of spice with more or fewer chilies can also create a milder or spicier version to suit your preference.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Achieving the perfect guacamole is an art that involves selecting the right avocados and balancing the flavors. Opt for ripe, medium California avocados that yield slightly to pressure for a creamy texture. Coarsely mashing the avocados, rather than pureeing them, adds a desirable chunkiness. The addition of lime juice not only enhances flavor but also helps prevent the guacamole from browning. Lastly, adjusting the seasoned salt to taste and experimenting with the amount of chilies can help tailor the guacamole to your preferred spice level.

Serving Suggestions

This guacamole is versatile and can be served in various ways. It pairs beautifully with tortilla chips, as a topping for tacos or burritos, or even as a flavorful addition to salads. For a low-carb option, serve it with sliced vegetables such as bell peppers or cucumbers.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing guacamole is mashing the avocados to the desired consistency. Using a fork or potato masher allows for better control over the texture, ensuring the perfect balance between creamy and chunky.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're unable to find Lawry's seasoned salt, you can substitute it with a mix of salt, garlic powder, and paprika. For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

Guacamole is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to make it ahead of time, the lime juice will help prevent browning. Covering the surface directly with plastic wrap before refrigerating can also help maintain its vibrant color and freshness.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the guacamole in a molcajete (traditional Mexican mortar and pestle) for an authentic presentation. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a lime wedge to enhance its visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

This guacamole pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages, from classic margaritas to refreshing lime-infused sparkling water. For a non-alcoholic option, a chilled hibiscus tea complements the flavors beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Guacamole is best enjoyed fresh and does not require reheating. To store leftovers, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole and refrigerate for up to two days. Stir well before serving again.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of this guacamole contains approximately 250 calories. The majority of these calories come from the healthy fats in avocados, making it a nutrient-dense food option.

Carbohydrates

This guacamole recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary source being the onions and tomatoes. A serving contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

Avocados, the main ingredient in guacamole, are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which is known for its heart-health benefits. A serving of this guacamole contains about 22 grams of fat, the majority of which are these beneficial fats.

Proteins

Guacamole is not a significant source of protein, with a serving providing roughly 4 grams. The cheese in this recipe adds a small amount of protein, but guacamole is primarily enjoyed for its healthy fats and flavors rather than as a protein source.

Vitamins and minerals

Avocados are a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin K, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and potassium. This guacamole recipe, with its fresh ingredients, is an excellent source of these nutrients, contributing to overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This guacamole recipe is free from common allergens such as gluten, nuts, and seafood. However, individuals with a sensitivity to dairy should be cautious due to the inclusion of cheese.

Summary

Overall, this guacamole is a healthy, nutrient-rich option that provides beneficial fats, vitamins, and minerals. It is low in carbohydrates and proteins but high in healthy fats, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a flavorful, health-conscious dish.

Summary

This award-winning guacamole recipe is a celebration of flavors, textures, and the rich history of a beloved dish. With its blend of ripe avocados, fresh ingredients, and a perfect balance of spices, it's sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you're serving it at a party or enjoying it as a healthy snack, this guacamole promises to delight and satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It all started on a warm summer day when I was visiting my friend Maria. She had just returned from a trip to Mexico and was eager to share her newfound love for authentic Mexican cuisine with me. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, she pulled out a bowl of vibrant green guacamole and proudly declared it her award-winning recipe.

I watched in amazement as Maria effortlessly mashed ripe avocados with a fork, adding a splash of lime juice, chopped tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. The aroma of fresh ingredients filled the room, and my mouth watered in anticipation. Maria then handed me a tortilla chip topped with a generous scoop of guacamole, urging me to taste her creation.

With one bite, I was transported to a world of bold flavors and vibrant colors. The creamy texture of the avocado, the tangy citrus of the lime, and the crunch of the vegetables all melded together in perfect harmony. It was love at first bite.

I begged Maria to teach me her secret recipe, and she graciously agreed. We spent the afternoon in her kitchen, chopping, mixing, and tasting until we had perfected the guacamole. Maria shared with me the importance of using ripe avocados, fresh ingredients, and a balance of flavors to create a truly exceptional dish.

From that day on, I became known as the Guacamole Queen among my friends and family. I would whip up a batch for every gathering, and it quickly became the star of the show. People would rave about my guacamole, asking for the recipe and begging for more.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect and refine the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it truly my own. I have experimented with different types of chilies, spices, and herbs, always striving to create the perfect balance of flavors that Maria taught me so long ago.

One of my proudest moments came when I entered my guacamole in a local cooking competition. The competition was fierce, with seasoned chefs and home cooks alike vying for the title of best guacamole in town. I was nervous but confident in my recipe, knowing that it had been tried and tested by countless friends and family members.

As the judges tasted each entry, I watched with bated breath, hoping that my guacamole would stand out among the rest. When the final winner was announced, I couldn't believe my ears. My guacamole had been awarded first place, beating out all the other competitors.

The feeling of pride and accomplishment was overwhelming. I had taken a simple recipe from a dear friend and turned it into something truly special. My love for cooking and sharing delicious food with others had paid off in the best possible way.

To this day, I still make my award-winning guacamole for every special occasion and gathering. It has become a beloved tradition in my family, a recipe that will be passed down for generations to come. And every time I make it, I think back to that fateful day in Maria's kitchen, where my love for authentic Mexican cuisine was born.