guacamole!

[1987alum]

The local produce place had a good deal on some some good-looking avacados, so I gave in to temptation, picked up a few and whipped up a quick batch of guacamole. Made me feel like it was summer, if only for a few moments.

4 avacados, mashed (with a few chunks remaining)
1 jalapeno, chopped fine
1/4 of a red onion, chopped fine
2 cloves garlic
Handful of cilantro, chopped
juice from 3 limes
salt & pepper

I like to let this sit for at least an hour to let the flavors meld. But I also find that if I don't finish it within a day or so, the flavor gets overpowering.

EDITED to add ...

I discard the seeds, etc. from the jalapeno, since Mrs. 87 is not a fan of heat.

[hammb]

Pretty similar to what I do.

The only differences for me is that I don't use quite that much lime:avocado ratio. 4 avocados would probably only get 1 1/2 limes from me, certainly not 3. I like only a hint of lime.

I always put fresh garlic in it as well (many people don't), but I make sure to really turn the garlic into a paste by mincing & smashing with the side of the knife, along with some kosher salt. Anytime I'm using raw garlic, as much as I do love garlic, I don't want to bite into a piece of raw garlic.

I REALLY like a little tomato in my guac. If it is the summer and I can get decent tomatoes I'll peel, seed, and dice a large tomato for a batch this size. I just really like that little extra in it.

When it comes to a "handful" of cilantro, it's a pretty big handful for me...I LOVE cilantrao *drool*

I tell ya there are few things better than a bowl of homemade guac. Like you said, let it sit for an hour or two so the flavors can mingle and you've got probably the best dip on the planet. The real keys to guac for me are using all good, fresh ingredients, and most importantly LEAVING THE CHUNKS. I hate Mexican places that puree their guac into a smooth paste. Leave the chunks of avocado and the other ingredients in there!

Great thread '87, I haven't made any since the super bowl, now I may end up having to do this sometime soon!

[gmartin]

If you want a more creamier Guacamole try adding 1/2 cup of plain yogurt.

[1987alum]

hammb - If I can get my hands on good maters, I love to add them! Oh, and I'm with you on cilantro. There is NEVER too much.

gmartin - I've added some sour cream or plain yogurt. Nice touch. I was going for chunky guac this time 'round. Both work well!

[PGY Tiercel]

Cilantro tastes like soap. Damn genetics

[hammb]

Cilantro tastes like soap. Damn genetics

Haha...isn't that awesome though?

I mean it sucks that you can't enjoy what is one of my favorite fresh herbs, but I find it incredibly fascinating how it tastes so completely different to some people.

[Falconboy]

I don't have an exact recipe for guac. My ingredient list ranges depending on what I feel like at the time but my basic recipe is as follows.

2-4 ripe avacado's (the riper the better)
2-3 tomatoes (more the better)
chopped red onion
1-2 chopped serrano or jalepeno peppers
1/8 tsp. of chipotle powder, cumin, tumeric.
crystal salt to taste
dash of pepper
1 lime

For variations I will add these from time to time.

couple cloves of garlic finely chopped
1 chopped mango or 1-2 chopped peaches or seeds from 1 pomegranate added for an exotic flavor

I'll add all these up in a bowl and mash them together by hand. No food processor or mixer here. I usually serve with the most authentic tortilla chips that I can find in the stores. I also sometimes make a nice sandwich dressing by blending ripe avacado with some mayo and lime juice.