Guacamole Prepared In My Grandmother’s Molcajete

Creating guacamole in a traditional molcajete, or Mexican mortar and pestle, brings a rustic charm and enhances the flavors in a way that modern tools can’t quite replicate. This recipe for Guacamole Prepared In My Grandmother’s Molcajete combines creamy avocados with the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes, jalapeño, garlic, green onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt.

The molcajete not only mashes the avocados to the perfect texture but also blends all the ingredients together, creating a delicious dip or topping that’s perfect for tacos, nachos, or simply served with tortilla chips.

How to make Guacamole Prepared In My Grandmother’s Molcajete

Ingredients:

3 Avocados

1 chopped Tomato

1 chopped Jalapeño deseeded

2 Cloves minced Garlic

1 chopped Green Onion

1 tablespoon Minced Cilantro

1 Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice

1/2 teaspoon Salt.

Instructions:

Mash avocados in molcajete with minced garlic.

Add tomatoes with jajapeño, green onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and lightly mix together.

Notes:

Avocados: Choose ripe avocados for the best texture and flavor. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be mushy.

Tomato: Use a ripe tomato for juiciness and flavor. Deseed it to avoid excess liquid in the guacamole.

Jalapeño: Deseeding the jalapeño reduces its heat level, making the guacamole mild. Adjust the amount or keep seeds for extra spiciness.

Garlic: Mincing garlic finely ensures it blends well into the guacamole without overpowering other flavors.

Green Onion: Provides a mild onion flavor and a bit of crunch. Chop finely for even distribution throughout the guacamole.

Cilantro: Adds freshness and a distinctive flavor. Adjust quantity based on personal preference.

Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds brightness and helps prevent the avocados from browning.

Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the avocado and acidity of the lime juice.

Molcajete: Using a molcajete gives the guacamole a rustic texture and helps meld the flavors together. It also imparts a subtle stone-ground flavor.

Mixing: Lightly mix the ingredients after adding them to the molcajete to preserve some texture. Overmixing can result in a smoother guacamole, which might not be desired.

Adjustments: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving. Some prefer more lime juice or salt, depending on personal taste.

Serving: Serve the guacamole immediately or cover tightly with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent browning. Enjoy with tortilla chips, tacos, or as a topping for various dishes.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is a molcajete and why use it for guacamole?

A molcajete is a traditional Mexican mortar and pestle made from volcanic rock.

It’s ideal for making guacamole because its rough texture helps to grind and combine ingredients evenly, enhancing the flavors.

How do I choose ripe avocados for guacamole?

Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure but are not mushy.

They should feel firm but give a little when pressed.

The skin should also be dark and almost black in color.

Can I make this guacamole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the guacamole ahead of time.

To prevent browning, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole to reduce exposure to air.

Store in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the guacamole?

Adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of jalapeño used.

For a milder guacamole, use less jalapeño or remove the seeds and membranes where most of the heat resides.

For more heat, include some or all of the jalapeño seeds.

Can I add other ingredients to personalize the guacamole?

Absolutely! Guacamole is versatile.

You can add diced red onion, diced bell peppers, a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat, or even a splash of hot sauce to adjust the flavor profile to your liking.

How do I prevent the guacamole from turning brown?

To prevent browning, add lime juice to the guacamole as soon as it’s mashed.

The citric acid in the lime juice helps slow down oxidation.

Also, as mentioned earlier, cover the guacamole tightly with plastic wrap directly on the surface before refrigerating.

What are the health benefits of eating guacamole?

Guacamole is rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels.

It’s also a good source of fiber, potassium, vitamins E and C, and antioxidants from ingredients like avocados, tomatoes, and cilantro.

Can I use a food processor instead of a molcajete?

While traditionally made in a molcajete, you can use a food processor to make guacamole.

Pulse the ingredients together until you reach your desired consistency, but be cautious not to over-process to avoid a too-smooth texture.

What are some serving suggestions for guacamole?

Serve guacamole with tortilla chips, as a topping for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas, alongside grilled meats or seafood, or as a dip for vegetables.

It’s also delicious spread on toast or used as a condiment in sandwiches.

How do I adjust the seasoning if my guacamole tastes bland?

If your guacamole tastes bland, adjust the seasoning by adding more salt for overall flavor enhancement.

You can also add a bit more lime juice for acidity or more minced garlic for a stronger garlic flavor, depending on your preference.