Guacamole is a popular dip and is made from mashed avocado and other seasonings. This delicious dip has become a staple in Mexican cuisine and is enjoyed all around the world. This easy guacamole recipe will be sure to wow!
History of Guacamole:
Guacamole has a long and interesting history that goes back to the Aztecs, dating back over 500 years ago. The Aztecs were the first to discover the delicious taste of mashed avocado and they used it in a variety of dishes. They would often mix it with other ingredients such as tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers to make a simple but flavorful dips. The Aztecs believed the avocado had mystical and aphrodisiac properties, it was even considered a symbol of fertility.
When the Spanish conquered Mexico in the 16th century, they were introduced to guacamole and quickly became fans of this delicious dip. They brought it back to Europe with them, and it soon became a popular dish throughout Spain and the rest of Europe.
In the 20th century, guacamole became a popular dish in the United States, particularly in California and the Southwest. Today, it is enjoyed all around the world and has become a staple in Mexican cuisine. It’s easy to see why – guacamole is the perfect combination of fresh ingredients, simple preparation, and delicious flavor.
Despite its popularity, the basic recipe for guacamole has remained relatively unchanged over the centuries. It is still made with simple, fresh ingredients and is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Mexico and the Aztecs.
Traditional Tools and Techniques for Making Guacamole:
The traditional way of making guacamole involves using a mortar and pestle (or, “molcajete y tejolote”) to mash the avocado and other ingredients together. A molcajete is a large, bowl-shaped mortar made of volcanic rock, while a tejolote is a hand-held pestle used to grind and crush ingredients in the molcajete. This technique allows you to create a smooth and creamy texture, while also preserving the flavors of the individual ingredients. The molcajete y tejolote is still commonly used in Mexican cuisine today, especially for making traditional salsas and guacamole. It also makes clean up simple because you only use one bowl to prepare and serve this easy guacamole recipe!
Health Benefits of Avocado:
Avocado is the main ingredient in guacamole recipes, and it is a superfood that is packed with nutrients. Avocado is high in healthy fats, fiber, potassium, and vitamins C, K, and B6. It has been linked to numerous health benefits, including:
- Lowers cholesterol and reduces the risk of heart disease
- Improve digestion and promotes healthy gut bacteria
- Boosts brain function and reduces the risk of depression
- Supports healthy skin and hair
- Regulates blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of diabetes
How to Choose a Ripe Avocado
Choosing the right avocados is an important step in making any guacamole recipe. Here are some tips for selecting the best avocados:
- Look for ripe avocados: Avocados should be slightly soft to the touch when ripe. To test for ripeness, gently press the avocado near the stem. If it yields to gentle pressure, it’s ripe and ready to use. If it’s hard, it needs more time to ripen. If it’s very soft and mushy, it’s overripe and may not be good for guacamole.
- Check the color: Avocados should be a dark green color when they’re ripe. If the avocado is very dark or has dark spots, it may be overripe or starting to spoil.
- Check the stem: Look at the stem of the avocado. If it’s still attached and easy to remove, the avocado is likely ripe. If the stem is difficult to remove or the avocado has a flat stem, it may be overripe.
- Buy in advance: If you need ripe avocados for a specific day, it’s best to buy them a few days ahead of time and let them ripen at home. Leave them on the counter at room temperature until they’re ready to use.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to select perfectly ripe avocados for your guacamole.
How to Store Avocados and Guacamole
Storing Avocados:
If the avocados are not yet ripe, store them at room temperature until they are. This can take up to 4-5 days. Once ripe, store the avocados in the refrigerator to slow down the ripening process. They will keep for an additional 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
Storing Guacamole:
If you don’t finish this delicious guacamole recipe in one sitting (if you’re like me, this is unlikely), then you should store the guacamole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent the guacamole from turning brown, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole before sealing the container. This will help to prevent air from reaching the surface of the guacamole. In addition, you can add extra lime juice, which helps prevent the guacamole from browning. Guacamole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Simple & Delicious Guacamole
Equipment
- 1 mortar and pestle (optional)
Ingredients
- 3 ripe avocados, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 tbsp shallots, chopped
- 1 tsp salt (plus extra to taste)
- 2 limes, juiced
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 jalepeno, finely diced (optional)
- black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Place the garlic, shallot, and salt into the mortar and use the pestle to grind/crush the ingredients together until they form a paste. If you do not have a mortar and pestle, use a food processor for this step.
- Add the avocado and crush with the pestle until your desired consistency (I like to leave some chunks). If you do not have a mortar and pestle, use a fork for this step.
- Add the lime juice, oregano, and finely diced jalepeno. Stir until incorporated.
- Add more salt and pepper to taste.
- Enjoy!
