Tired of bland, tasteless guacamole? Craving a vibrant, chunky dip that screams fresh flavor? Then look no further! This recipe will guide you through making the best chunky guacamole, a homemade delight that's perfect for parties, movie nights, or a simple weeknight snack. It's one of those easy recipes that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious dish! This healthy meal is also a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Ingredients for Chunky Guacamole
- 3 ripe avocados
- 1/2 medium red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Perfect Guacamole
Step 1: Prep the Avocados
Carefully cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a medium-sized bowl. Make sure your avocados are ripe but not overly soft; slightly firm avocados will hold their shape better in the guacamole.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Add the chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, cilantro, diced tomatoes, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the avocados.
Step 3: Mash Gently
Using a fork, gently mash the avocados and other ingredients together. Avoid over-mashing; you want a chunky texture, not a smooth purée. The goal is to incorporate everything while preserving some avocado chunks.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Taste the guacamole and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more lime juice for extra tanginess, jalapeño for heat, or salt for flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your chunky guacamole immediately with tortilla chips, vegetables, or as a topping for your favorite dishes. For best results, cover and refrigerate any leftovers. Note that the guacamole may darken slightly upon exposure to air, but the taste remains delicious!
Cooking Tips for the Best Guacamole
- Avocado Ripeness: Choose avocados that yield to gentle pressure. Slightly underripe avocados can be used, but they will be less creamy.
- Lime Juice is Key: Freshly squeezed lime juice is crucial for preserving the guacamole's color and adding a bright, zesty flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño to your liking. Remove the seeds and membranes for milder heat.
- Don't Overmash: Resist the urge to over-mash the avocados; a chunky texture is what makes this guacamole special.
- Storage: Store leftover guacamole in an airtight container, pressing plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent browning.
Guacamole Variations: Get Creative!
- Add some protein: Incorporate cooked shrimp, chicken, or black beans for a heartier dip.
- Go tropical: Add mango or pineapple chunks for a sweet and savory twist.
- Spice it up: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Herby goodness: Experiment with different herbs like parsley, chives, or oregano.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 12-15g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 5-7g
Making this chunky guacamole is a fantastic way to enjoy homemade cooking. It's one of the best recipes for a satisfying and healthy meal, ideal as part of your quick dinner ideas. Enjoy the deliciousness!