Medium Heat Classic Guacamole Recipe

Avocados: The creamy base of the guacamole, providing a rich and smooth texture.

Onion: Adds a bit of crunch and a sharp, pungent flavor to balance the creaminess.

Cilantro: Fresh herb that adds a burst of citrusy and slightly peppery flavor.

Jalapeño: Provides the medium heat, adding a spicy kick to the guacamole.

Lime juice: Adds acidity to balance the richness of the avocados and prevents browning.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.

Tomato: Optional ingredient that adds a bit of sweetness and additional texture.

To enhance the flavor of your guacamole, consider roasting the jalapeño before mincing it. Simply place the jalapeño on a hot skillet or grill until the skin is charred and blistered. Let it cool, then peel off the skin, remove the seeds, and mince. This adds a smoky depth to your guacamole that pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado.

• ripe avocados - Substitute with mashed peas: Mashed peas provide a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a good alternative for those avoiding avocados.

• small onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder taste and can add a subtle sweetness, which complements the other ingredients well.

• chopped cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley offers a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that can mimic the brightness of cilantro without the soapy taste some people experience.

• jalapeño - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers have a similar heat level and flavor profile, making them an excellent replacement for jalapeños.

• lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides the necessary acidity and tanginess, closely replicating the flavor of lime juice.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the guacamole.

• tomato - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers add a similar color and a sweet, crunchy texture, making them a good alternative to tomatoes.

• To keep your guacamole fresh, transfer it to an airtight container. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole to minimize exposure to air.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The guacamole should stay fresh for up to 2 days.
• If you notice any browning, simply scrape off the top layer before serving. The rest should still be vibrant and delicious.
• For longer storage, consider freezing. Place the guacamole in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date. Frozen guacamole can last up to 3 months.
• When ready to use, thaw the guacamole in the refrigerator overnight. Stir well before serving to restore its creamy texture.
• To enhance the flavor after thawing, you might want to add a bit more lime juice and cilantro.
• Avoid freezing tomatoes in the guacamole as they can become watery and affect the texture. Add fresh tomatoes after thawing if desired.

• Store the guacamole in an airtight container to prevent it from browning.
• To reheat, place the guacamole in a microwave-safe bowl.
• Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
• Microwave on medium heat for 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches the desired temperature.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the guacamole on the stovetop. Place it in a small saucepan over low heat.
• Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.
• Add a splash of lime juice or a bit of water if the guacamole seems too thick.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or lime juice to refresh the flavors.
• Serve immediately with fresh tortilla chips or as a topping for your favorite Mexican dishes.

• Knife: To finely chop the onion, cilantro, and jalapeño.

• Cutting board: A surface to safely chop the ingredients.

• Mixing bowl: To combine and mix all the ingredients together.

• Fork: To mash the avocados to the desired consistency.

• Spoon: To scoop out the avocado flesh from the skin.

• Measuring spoons: To measure the lime juice and salt accurately.

• Serving bowl: To present the guacamole for serving.

• Tortilla chips: For serving and enjoying the guacamole.

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop the onion, cilantro, and jalapeño ahead of time and store them in airtight containers.

Use a potato masher: A potato masher can quickly and efficiently mash the avocados to the desired consistency.

Pre-squeeze lime juice: Squeeze the lime juice in advance and keep it in a small container for quick access.

Skip the optional tomato: If you're in a hurry, omit the tomato to save chopping time.

Use a food processor: For a smoother guacamole, blend all ingredients in a food processor for a few seconds.