Best Ever Guacamole

If my favorite food could be guacamole without ridicule, it would be. This "Best Ever Guacamole" in particular. To explain, this glorious dip sent from above by the snack/appetizer gods is loaded up with everything you want to be in your guac and NOTHING you don't. I know you know what I mean. Let's learn how to make it together!

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Best Ever Guacamole Ingredients

The combination of the following ingredients creates such gorgeous harmony. Fresh, creamy, salty and spicy. The textures brought forth by these ingredients also make for the most enjoyable dipping experience. Here is your grocery list:

Fresh Ingredients

• Avocados: Avocados take the most prominent position in any guacamole recipe. Their substantial yet creamy composition allows for them to be both enjoyable and nutrient dense. If you are not purchasing ripe avocados from the grocery store, keep in mind that it takes 4-5 days for them to be guacamole-ready when stored at room temperature.
• Lime Juice: Adding the sour/fresh flavor of lime juice to your guacamole helps to balance out the richness in avocado-heavy dishes. It also preserves the beautiful green color of your guac allowing you to leave it out a while longer without fear of it immediately turning brown.
• Onion: Technically any onion will do in guacamole. It ultimately comes down to preference. To demonstrate, red adds a good amount of sweetness and a beautiful pop of color. Sweet white onions create a really nice balance with the flavor of the garlic. Yellow onions will do in a pinch but are not usually a go-to choice for recipes where they will be used raw.
• Garlic: Do I need to explain this one? Do not skip the garlic. Ever.
• Jalapeño: While this ingredient is technically optional, I suggest you don't pass on it. If you do not like a ton of spiciness, simply remove the seeds from your pepper when you mince it. If you love the spice, leave them in.
• Roma Tomato: The tomato you use in your guacamole recipe does not technically have to be a roma. I like to use roma because they are pretty uniform in size and create the perfect amount of chopped tomato for this recipe. The purpose of tomato in guac is to add a fresh sweetness and break up the fattiness of the guac.

Spices

• Chili Powder: While the chili powder may seem a little untypical for most guac lovers, I find it to be an awesome addition to any guacamole recipe. I love to add heat without making a dish overwhelmingly spicy. Chili powder is a great way to accomplish this as it is pretty mild as pepper spices go and manages to maintain good depth of flavor.
• Black Pepper: Add black pepper to taste. With the chili powder also on deck there is no reason to go overboard.
• Sea Salt: The use of a good sea salt is paramount when making guacamole. It creates a perfect, harmonious balance between all the flavors that should exist within any good guac recipe: rich, sweet, sour and salty. The salt is what makes these flavors work together. Do not "forget" it! No one will forgive you.

Tips for Making the Best Ever Guacamole

Making the best guacamole involves a combination of fresh ingredients, balanced flavors, and careful preparation. Here are some tips to help you create delicious guac:

1. Choose ripe avocados: Look for avocados that are slightly soft to the touch but not overly mushy. They should yield to gentle pressure when squeezed.
2. Use fresh ingredients: Select ripe tomatoes, onions, garlic, and jalapeño for maximum flavor. Fresh ingredients will enhance the overall taste of your guacamole.
3. Balance the flavors: Guacamole should have a balance of flavors, including the creaminess of avocados, tanginess of lime juice, heat from jalapeños (if desired), and freshness from tomato. Adjust the quantities of these ingredients to suit your personal taste preferences.
4. Mash the avocados properly: Mash the avocados using a fork or potato masher until you achieve your desired consistency. Some people prefer chunky guac, while others like it smoother. Be careful not to over-mash, as a few chunks can add texture.
5. Let it sit for flavors to meld: After preparing the guacamole, let it sit for about 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together and develop a richer taste.

Remember, guacamole is a versatile dish, so feel free to adjust the ingredients and proportions to suit your preferences. Enjoy your homemade guacamole with tortilla chips, as a topping for tacos, or as a dip for vegetables!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if an avocado is ripe enough to use in guacamole?

Gently press the avocado with your fingertips. If it yields to gentle pressure and feels slightly soft, it is ripe and ready to use in guacamole.

Can I make guacamole in advance?

Yes, you can make guacamole in advance. To prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guac, ensuring there is no air trapped, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume it within a day or two for the best quality.

How can I keep guacamole from turning brown?

To prevent guacamole from turning brown, press plastic wrap directly onto its surface, minimizing air exposure. Additionally, storing it in the refrigerator helps slow down oxidation. Adding lime or lemon juice, which contains citric acid, can also help delay browning.

Can I freeze homemade guacamole?

While it's possible to freeze guacamole, it's not recommended. Avocados have a high water content, which can cause the guac to become watery when thawed. If you choose to freeze it, transfer to an airtight container, leaving some headspace, and thaw it in the refrigerator when ready to use.

How to Serve/Store Homemade Guacamole

Homemade guacamole can be served in various ways, depending on your preferences and the occasion. Here are some ideas for serving:

1. Tortilla chips: The most common and popular way to serve guacamole is with tortilla chips. Arrange a bowl of freshly made guac alongside a platter of crispy tortilla chips. This classic combination is perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply as a snack.
2. Tacos and burritos: Guacamole makes a fantastic topping for tacos, burritos, and other Mexican-inspired dishes. Spoon a generous amount of guac onto your tacos or burritos to add a creamy and flavorful element. It complements the savory fillings and adds a refreshing touch.
3. Sandwiches and burgers: Spread guacamole onto your favorite sandwiches or burgers to give them a creamy and vibrant twist. It works especially well with grilled chicken, turkey, or vegetarian options. The guac adds a delicious layer of flavor and acts as a creamy condiment.
4. Salad dressing: If you're looking for a healthier option, try using guacamole as a salad dressing. To illustrate, thin it out with a bit of lime juice or water to achieve a pourable consistency. Drizzle the guac dressing over a salad, toss it well, and enjoy the creamy and tangy flavors.
5. Veggie dip: Guacamole can also be served as a dip for fresh vegetables. Arrange a platter of colorful veggie sticks such as carrot, cucumber, bell pepper, and celery alongside a bowl of guac. It's a nutritious and delicious snack that's perfect for parties or a healthy afternoon treat.

Storing Guacamole

Storing homemade guacamole properly is important to prevent it from browning and maintain its freshness. To create a protective barrier, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guac, ensuring there is no air trapped between the dip and the wrap. This prevents oxidation and helps maintain its green color. Place the container in the refrigerator. This is equally important as cold temperatures slow down the oxidation process and help keep the guacamole fresh. Ideally, store it at a temperature of around 40°F (4°C).

Homemade guacamole is best consumed within a day or two lest it lose its optimal flavor and texture. Over time, the guac may start to lose its freshness and the flavors may become muted.

Please remember if you make this recipe to snap a pic and share with @censoredbaker on instagram!

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