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By Samantha Burnett

Sock it to me guacamole

Avocados have become a very popular and healthy food choice. In the U.S., more than 87.3 million pounds of avocados are consumed on Cinco de Mayo alone. Avocados present versatility in meals and serve as a nutritious snack. Avocados are a significant source of fiber. They also present high amounts of vitamin B, vitamin K and omega 2 fatty acids.

History

Avocados are also known as alligator pears. They originate from Mexico and trace back to the 1300's, during the Aztec empire. Avocados originated from three major regions: Mexico, Guatemala and the West Indies. The most popular avocado is the Haas, which originated in Southern California by a mail carrier and amateur horticulturist, Randolph Haas.

Processing an avocado

There are many gadgets available for processing avocados. For this example, you will only need a sharp knife and a spoon.

  • The first step in processing an avocado is to slice it lengthwise, using the seed as a guide.
  • Separate the two halves from each other. There will be a large seed inside.
  • Remove the seed and scale the avocado with a knife. Glide the knife inside the avocado, first lengthwise, than horizontal. This will create square-like chunks.
  • Use your spoon to scoop the avocado from the skin and place in a dish.

Guacamole

One of the most popular avocado dishes is guacamole. The Aztecs created this dish. Though it is widely considered as a dip, the Aztecs considered it a sauce. They called guacamole, "ahuacamulli," which translates to, "avocado sauce." There are many variations of this recipe circulating today. Here are two varieties to try:

Quick and Easy Guacamole
  • 2 avocados, softened and ripe
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice (lime juice can be used too)
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a large bowl, lightly mash avocados with lemon juice. Add in garlic powder and salt and mix together.
Classic Guacamole
  • 2 avocados, softened and ripe
  • Kosher salt to your desired taste
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice or lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup of onion (minced)
  • 1/8 cup Serrano chiles (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped
  • A dash of freshly grated black pepper
  • 1/4 cup ripe tomato, chopped

Instructions:

In a large bowl, mash the avocados with lemon or lime juice. Be sure to not over mash the avocado and keep it chunky. Add the Kosher salt, onion, chiles pepper and cilantro and tomato. Chill and serve.

Helpful Tips to Remember

  • To prepare an avocado for guacamole make sure you have the proper utensils. There are many avocado gadgets on the market to simplify the extraction process. However, a simple knife and spoon works just as well.
  • Do not overlook the lemon or lime juice. This will keep the guacamole looking and tasting fresh.
  • Start with smaller amounts of chiles. Many chilies carry a powerful spice.
  • Wash hands and avoid the eye area of your face while preparing the chilies and onions.

Guacamole is a part of many Mexican meals. It can also be used as a healthy dip choice with tortilla chips or vegetables. Many find the great satisfaction of guacamole as a healthy and fun option in their diet. Explore the variations and most of all, enjoy!

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