Guacamole is Mexico's most beloved dip – and one of the easiest to make properly. Forget the store-bought versions: with ripe avocados and five minutes of effort you get a guacamole that elevates everything from nachos to tacos.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe avocados
- Juice of 1 lime
- ½ small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 handful fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 small tomato, seeds removed, diced (optional)
- ½ finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes (optional)
- Salt
How to Make It
- Mash the avocados coarsely with a fork – real guacamole has texture, it shouldn't be smooth like a purée.
- Fold in the lime, onion, cilantro and, if using, tomato and chili.
- Salt generously and adjust to taste – salt and lime are what wake up the avocado flavor.
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips.
How to Keep Your Guacamole Green
Guacamole oxidizes and turns brown when it meets air. Three countermeasures: plenty of lime juice, plastic wrap pressed ALL the way down onto the surface, and – the best trick – leave the avocado pit in the bowl until serving. Either way, make it as close to serving time as possible.
Make It Your Own
Sprinkle over tajin for that authentic Mexican chili-lime flavor, top with pomegranate for a festive touch, or stir in a little chipotle for smoky depth. Serve it as part of a Tex-Mex spread with quesadillas and fajitas – you'll find all the extras in our Mexican kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know the avocado is ripe? It should yield slightly to gentle pressure – and the stem end should be green underneath, not brown.
Can I make guacamole the day before? Preferably not – but with lime juice, plastic wrap on the surface and the pit in the bowl it survives a few hours in the fridge.
What's the difference between guacamole and avocado dip? Real guacamole is coarsely mashed avocado with lime, onion and cilantro – ready-made dips often contain mostly sour cream and flavorings.
