Easy Grilled Guacamole Recipe
Delicious guacamole comes from a blend of only the best ingredients. When they come together, the flavors create something extraordinary. Fresh guacamole is the perfect way to cool down your mouth after eating something spicy. It takes only a few minutes to make and can instantly make anything too hot more manageable.
What is Guacamole?
Guacamole is a traditional Mexican dip made primarily from ripe avocados. The basic recipe usually includes mashed avocados, lime juice, cilantro, jalapenos, onions, and tomatoes. However, variations exist and additional ingredients can include garlic, cumin, or other spices.
It is often served with tortilla chips, but it's also used as a condiment for various Mexican dishes like tacos or burritos. It's loved for its creamy texture, fresh flavors, and health benefits, as avocados are high in healthy fats and nutrients.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 medium avocados
- 2 medium jalapeños
- 2 cloves garlic, unpeeled
- Juice of 1½ limes
- 1/2 large red onion, chopped (about ½ cup)
- 1 medium tomato, seeds removed and chopped
- 1/4 c. freshly chopped cilantro
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat the grill to medium heat. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Grill the avocado halves, jalapeños, and garlic with their cut side down. Turn them occasionally until the Jalapeños are charred and soft.
- Add grilled avocado and peeled garlic cloves to a large bowl. Add lime juice and use a fork to mash avocado and garlic clove together coarsely.
- Cut the jalapeños open and remove the seeds, stems, and any charred bits of skin. Finely chop the avocado, tomato, and cilantro. Add these ingredients to a bowl with the minced peppers. Season with salt and stir everything together until it is combined.
Tips for Making Guacamole
Making great guacamole is easy if you follow these tips:
- Use Ripe Avocados: The key to creamy, delicious guacamole is using ripe avocados. They should yield slightly when gently squeezed.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lime juice, cilantro, and other ingredients. Freshness makes a big difference in the final taste.
- Balance of Flavors: Guacamole should have a balance of flavors. It should be slightly tangy from the lime, with a hint of heat from jalapenos or other chilies, and a good amount of freshness from the cilantro.
- Don't Over Mash: Some people prefer a chunkier texture, so don't over-mash the avocados. A fork should do the job just fine.
- Season Well: Don't forget to season your guacamole with enough salt. This will help bring out all the flavors.
- Serve Immediately or Store Properly: Guacamole can brown quickly once it's made. If you're not serving it immediately, cover it with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole to prevent oxidation.
- Add-ins: While traditional guacamole is perfect as it is, feel free to experiment with add-ins like diced tomatoes, roasted corn, or even some crumbled bacon for a different twist.
Remember, the best guacamole is the one that suits your personal taste, so feel free to adjust the ingredients as needed!
What is the best way to choose an avocado?
Choosing the right avocado is crucial for making great guacamole. Here are some tips:
- Check the Color: Generally, ripe avocados have a darker color. However, color alone may not be the most reliable indicator as it can vary.
- Apply Gentle Pressure: Hold the avocado in the palm of your hand and apply gentle pressure. A ripe avocado will yield slightly under pressure but shouldn't feel mushy or soft.
- Examine the Stem: You can also check the stem end of the avocado. If you flick off the small stem or cap and the area underneath is green, the avocado is good to eat. If it's brown, the fruit is overripe.
- Consider the Use Time: If you plan to use the avocados immediately, choose ones that are ripe. If you plan to use them in a couple of days, go for firmer, less ripe avocados.
Remember, for guacamole, you want avocados that are ripe and creamy on the inside. If they're too firm, they won't mash well, and if they're overripe, they can taste off.
Side dishes best served with Guacamole
Here are some of the best side dishes that pair well with guacamole:
- Chips and Salsa: This classic combo works great with guacamole. The crunchiness of the chips and the tanginess of the salsa complement the creamy guacamole.
- Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: Guacamole serves as a great topping or dip for grilled meats and seafood.
- Fresh Veggies: Raw veggies like carrots, celery, cucumbers, and bell peppers are a healthy and crunchy alternative to chips.
- Stuffed Mushrooms or Deviled Eggs: These appetizers can be enhanced with a dollop of guacamole.
- Mexican Dishes: Tacos, enchiladas, burritos, and quesadillas all pair well with guacamole.
- Salads: A scoop of guacamole can add a creamy element to fresh salads.
- Toast: Avocado or guacamole toast is a popular choice for a light meal or snack.
Remember, the beauty of guacamole is its versatility, so feel free to experiment with what you pair it with!
Alternative for Avocadoes
If you're looking to make guacamole without avocados, there are several alternatives that can mimic the creamy texture and still deliver on taste. Here are some options:
- Edamame: This green soybean can be mashed just like avocados and has a similar creamy texture. It's also packed with protein, making your guacamole an even healthier dip.
- Green Peas: Green peas have a sweet flavor that pairs well with the traditional ingredients of guacamole. They can be easily mashed and mixed with typical guacamole ingredients.
- Asparagus: Blanched and pureed asparagus can make a great base for a unique version of guacamole.
- Broccoli: Steamed and mashed broccoli can work as a flavorful, nutritious alternative to avocados in guacamole.
- Zucchini/Courgette: A cooked and pureed zucchini has a similar texture to avocados and can serve as a good substitute.
Remember, while these alternatives can replace the texture of avocados, they might alter the taste of your guacamole. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to find what works best for you.
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