Guacamole

Guacamole

I have really gotten addicted to Guacamole over the last few months: It is my go to appetizer in Mexican food. Guacamole is a traditional Mexican dip with tortilla chips. Here is a simple recipe that is sure to be a hit at any party, pot luck or an evening at home.

• 3 avocados
• 1 Roma tomato
• 1 medium red onion
• 1/2 cup cilantro
• 1 lime
• 1 Serrano pepper
• 1/2 Tsp red pepper
• 1 Tsp ground roaster cumin powder
• 1 Tsp Salt

If have not picked avocados at the market before, here are 2 broad thumb rules to follow. Visually they should be brown but with a hint of green. Second, they should feel firm but not too firm.

First off, cut, peel and half the avocados as shown below. Avocados are very easy to peel - you first halve them - the seed remains in one of the halves.You should be able to peel the skin off with your fingers and be able to pop the seed out with a spoon or a knife.

Next, we need to mash the avocados. How and how much you mash depends on the overall consistency you desire. This is very much like salsa - some like it chunky, some don't. I prefer medium,so I usually use the blender to give it a quick whirl and get the desired consistency. Usually you should be able to use a potato masher or even a spoon to get the job done. This is a before and after of my avocados:

Transfer the mashed avocados to a bowl. Now add the finely chopped onion and tomato into the bowl as well. I usually leave the juicy seeds of the tomato out of the recipe but you can throw that in as well.Now slice the Serrano pepper, remove the seeds, mince it and add to the bowl as well. 

Chop the cilantro and ad it along with the salt and spices. Finally, add the juice of the lime to the mixture. You should a very colorful mix in the bowl :)

Mix well and refrigerate for about 20 minutes before serving with tortilla chips.

¡Buen provecho!