How to Make Traditional Mexican Guacamole – Quick and Simple
Guacamole is a staple in Mexican cuisine, known for its creamy texture and fresh flavors. My family and I love snacking on guacamole often, so this recipe is quick to make and serves about three people, depending on how much you love this traditional, simple, and quick guac.
Now, the title suggests that this guacamole is traditional, meaning there is no tomato or cheese in this recipe. Those versions of guacamole are Americanized, and while you’re welcome to add those ingredients, this particular recipe stays true to the roots of what we make in a Mexican household. If you’re interested in bringing an authentic taste of Mexican culture to your table, try this recipe out!
How to Make Traditional Mexican Guacamole – Quick and Simple
Equipment
- 1 bowl
- 1 fork
- 1 molcajete optional (a traditional stone mortar and pestle)
Ingredients
- 4 ripe avocados
- 1/2 small white onion finely diced
- 1 small jalepeño finely diced
- 1 handful of fresh cilantro chopped
- 2 limes
- 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Avocados: Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, but save one pit for later, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Mash them roughly with a fork, leaving some chunks for texture. If using the molcajete, you will do all the mashing at the end.
- Add Fresh Ingredients: Mix in the chopped onion, diced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro.
- Season: Add the lime juice and salt.
- Mix and Taste: Stir everything together. Taste and adjust salt and lime juice as needed. If using the molcajete, you will stir roughly to bring out the flavors of the onion and jalapeño
- Serve Immediately: Guacamole is best enjoyed fresh. One tip to keep your guac fresh for longer is to throw an avocado pit into the guac bowl—it's a little family trick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with tortilla chips, as a side to tacos, or as a topping for grilled meats and vegetables.
Tips for the Best Guacamole:
- Use a Molcajete for Authenticity: For the most authentic guacamole, try using a molcajete—a traditional stone mortar and pestle. This method not only adds a rustic touch but also helps to release the natural oils and flavors of ingredients like onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. The stone’s rough texture ensures a perfect balance of mashed and chunky elements, elevating the overall taste and texture of your guacamole.
- Choose Ripe Avocados for the Best Texture: The key to creamy, smooth guacamole is using ripe avocados. Look for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren’t overly soft. If your avocado is a little brown inside, don’t worry! It’ll blend with the other flavorful ingredients, and the color will be masked by the spices and herbs, so it’s still perfect for mixing into your guacamole.
- Embrace the Chunky Consistency: Guacamole should have texture, so avoid over-mixing. A slight chunkiness is essential to make each bite flavorful and satisfying. Use a fork to mash the avocados, leaving some larger pieces for that signature guacamole feel. This gives it a more rustic, homemade vibe that’s better than a smooth puree.
- Season Gradually: When adding salt and other seasonings, be sure to taste as you go. Start with a small amount of salt and lime juice and adjust based on preference. Freshly squeezed lime juice is key, adding a zesty contrast to the creamy avocado. If you like a little extra kick, adjust the jalapeño heat level to suit your taste.
Variations:
- Spicy Guacamole: If you love a fiery kick, increase the number of jalapeño peppers or add serrano chile peppers to your guacamole. For a more intense heat, finely chop the seeds along with the peppers, as that’s where the heat resides. If you prefer a slightly milder version, you can remove the seeds and ribs before adding the peppers to the mix.
- Creamy Guacamole: For an irresistibly smooth and velvety guacamole, stir in a dollop of Mexican crema, a rich and slightly tangy cream that adds a silky texture to the mix. If you want a more luxurious creamy consistency, consider using a molcajete to grind the ingredients together. The stone mortar and pestle help break down the avocado more evenly, giving it a soft, velvety finish.
- Americanized Guacamole: To create a version that’s more familiar to American tastes, try adding a diced tomato to your guacamole. This addition brings in a burst of freshness and a touch of sweetness that balances the rich, creamy texture of the avocado. You can opt for Roma tomatoes for their firm flesh and less watery texture, or add a handful of cherry tomatoes for a juicy, pop of color. Just make sure to remove the seeds if you want to avoid making the guacamole too watery.
- Tropical Guacamole: For a sweet twist, try adding diced mango or pineapple to your guacamole. The sweetness of these fruits pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the avocado, cilantro, and lime.
Enjoy this quick and simple guacamole recipe that brings the authentic flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen! Whether you stick with the classic version or try one of the fun variations, this guacamole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a casual snack, or adding a flavorful touch to your favorite Mexican dishes—this guacamole is all about bringing people together over great food.
