Baltimore Kick-off Guacamole

Introduction

History

The Baltimore Kick-off Guacamole is a modern take on guacamole, a dish with ancient roots in the Aztec culture. Traditionally, guacamole was made with just avocados, tomato, and salt. Over the years, as it became popularized across the globe, various adaptations emerged. The addition of crab meat is a nod to Baltimore's rich seafood tradition, marrying the classic Mexican dish with the flavors of the Chesapeake Bay.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best Baltimore Kick-off Guacamole, use ripe avocados that yield to gentle pressure for a creamy texture. Fresh lime juice not only adds zest but also helps prevent the avocados from browning. When mixing in the crab, be gentle to keep some of the crab's texture intact. Lastly, rinsing the capers removes excess salt, balancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the guacamole chilled with a side of tortilla chips for dipping. It also pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetables like sliced bell peppers or cucumbers for a lighter option.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing this guacamole is in the mashing of the avocados. Coarsely mashing them, rather than making them completely smooth, adds texture to the dish. Gently folding in the other ingredients helps maintain this texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If crab meat is not available, substitute with cooked, shredded chicken or shrimp. Lime juice can be replaced with lemon juice for a slightly different citrus profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Guacamole is best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, it can be made a few hours ahead. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole to prevent browning and refrigerate until serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the guacamole in a hollowed-out avocado shell for a festive presentation. Garnish with additional chopped green onions and a sprinkle of paprika for color.

Pairing Recommendations

This guacamole pairs beautifully with a crisp, dry white wine or a light, citrusy beer. It also complements grilled seafood or chicken dishes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Guacamole does not reheat well, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Again, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent browning.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Baltimore Kick-off Guacamole contains approximately 180 calories, making it a nutrient-dense choice that provides energy without being overly caloric.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Baltimore Kick-off Guacamole contains approximately 8 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the avocados and are accompanied by dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.

Fats

Avocados are known for their healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fat, which is heart-healthy. A serving of this guacamole contains about 15 grams of fat, contributing to its creamy texture and rich flavor.

Proteins

The addition of crab meat not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the protein content of the guacamole. Each serving contains roughly 6 grams of protein, making it a more satisfying appetizer or snack.

Vitamins and minerals

This guacamole is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C from the lime juice, Vitamin E, and potassium from the avocados, and selenium from the crab meat. These nutrients support overall health, from immune function to heart health.

Alergens

The primary allergen in this recipe is shellfish (crab). Individuals with a shellfish allergy should avoid this dish or substitute the crab with a non-allergenic ingredient.

Summary

Baltimore Kick-off Guacamole is a nutritious dish, rich in healthy fats, proteins, and various vitamins and minerals. It's relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a guilt-free addition to any meal or gathering.

Summary

Baltimore Kick-off Guacamole is a delightful twist on a classic dish, blending the creamy texture of avocados with the rich taste of crab meat. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Whether served as an appetizer or a side, this guacamole is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Baltimore Kick-off Guacamole. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a neighborhood potluck. As I scanned the table of dishes, my eyes landed on a vibrant green bowl filled with creamy avocado goodness. Intrigued, I asked the hostess for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me.

The secret to this guacamole, she explained, was the combination of fresh ingredients and a dash of Old Bay seasoning. I had never thought to add this traditional Maryland spice to guacamole before, but I was eager to give it a try. With a notebook in hand, I scribbled down the list of ingredients and instructions, eager to recreate this delicious dish in my own kitchen.

As I began to gather the necessary ingredients, I couldn't help but think back to all the recipes I had collected over the years. Some came from family members, passed down through generations, while others were shared by friends and neighbors. Each recipe told a story, a snapshot of a moment in time when food brought people together.

I remembered my grandmother's famous apple pie, made with apples picked fresh from the orchard behind her house. The aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the kitchen as she rolled out the flaky crust, her hands moving with practiced precision. The pie was always a hit at family gatherings, disappearing within minutes of being served.

Then there was the recipe for beef stew that I had learned from a co-worker during my days working at the local diner. She had shown me how to brown the meat just right, how to season the broth with a touch of Worcestershire sauce for that extra depth of flavor. The stew had become a staple in my household, a comforting meal on chilly winter nights.

But as I stood in my kitchen, mashing ripe avocados and dicing fresh tomatoes, I knew that this Baltimore Kick-off Guacamole would soon become a new favorite. The creamy texture of the avocados combined with the tangy lime juice and spicy Old Bay seasoning created a flavor profile unlike any other guacamole I had tried before.

As I mixed in the diced onions and cilantro, the colors of the guacamole came alive, a vibrant green speckled with red and purple. I couldn't wait to scoop up a spoonful and taste the final product, to see if it lived up to the memory of that first bite at the potluck.

Finally, the guacamole was ready, and I scooped it into a bowl, garnishing it with a sprinkle of extra Old Bay seasoning for good measure. I set it out on the table, next to a basket of warm tortilla chips, and watched as my family and friends eagerly dug in.

The flavors of the guacamole danced on my tongue, a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy. The Old Bay seasoning added a subtle kick that lingered on the palate, a nod to the recipe's Baltimore roots. I couldn't help but smile as I saw the empty bowl at the end of the night, a sure sign that this guacamole was a hit.

As I cleaned up the kitchen, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the recipes that had come into my life, each one a gift from someone who had taken the time to share a piece of themselves through food. The Baltimore Kick-off Guacamole would now join the ranks of my treasured recipes, a reminder of that warm summer day and the sense of amazement I had felt when I first tasted it. And who knows what other culinary delights awaited me in the future, just waiting to be discovered and shared with those I loved.

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