Guacamole has always been a staple in my family gatherings, bringing together a harmonious blend of creamy avocado, zesty lime, and the gentle heat of jalapeño. This particular recipe, coupled with homemade tortilla chips, captured the hearts of my family and friends alike. The fresh ingredients elevate the classic guacamole to new heights, and the crisp, warm tortilla chips made from scratch add an authentic touch that store-bought just can’t replicate. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with everyone reaching for seconds and asking for the recipe. Now, let’s dive into how you can recreate this delightful dish in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Creating the perfect guacamole starts with selecting the freshest ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 ripe avocados – Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure.
• 1 lime – Juiced, to add that essential zing.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste for seasoning.
• ½ cup diced onion – Red or white, depending on your preference.
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro – For that fresh, herbaceous note.
• 2 Roma tomatoes – Seeded and diced.
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic – Freshly minced for the best flavor.
• 1 pinch ground cayenne pepper – Optional, for a bit of extra heat.
• 10 small corn tortillas – To create your homemade chips.
• Vegetable oil – For frying the tortilla chips.
• Salt – To season the chips.

Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, follow these steps to make your guacamole and tortilla chips:

1. Start by preparing the tortilla chips. Cut each corn tortilla into six wedges. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add a few tortilla wedges at a time to the hot oil, frying them until golden and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chips from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with salt immediately.
3. Continue this process until all wedges are fried and seasoned. Allow the chips to cool slightly before serving.
4. For the guacamole, halve and pit the avocados. Scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl.
5. Add lime juice and salt to the avocados. Use a fork to mash them to your desired consistency.
6. Stir in the onion, cilantro, tomatoes, garlic, and cayenne pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
7. Taste the guacamole and adjust seasoning as necessary, adding more lime juice or salt if needed.
8. Transfer the guacamole to a serving bowl and serve immediately with the homemade tortilla chips.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Each serving of guacamole with homemade tortilla chips contains about 350 calories. These values can vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used, but it provides a good estimate for those tracking their intake.

Preparation Time

The entire preparation and cooking process for this guacamole and homemade tortilla chips recipe is about 30 minutes. This includes 10 minutes for preparing the ingredients and 20 minutes for cooking and assembling the dish. The quick preparation time makes it an ideal appetizer for parties or a casual weekend snack.

How to Serve

To enhance your guacamole experience, consider the following serving suggestions:

• Serve the guacamole in a rustic bowl, garnished with a sprig of fresh cilantro for a pop of color.
• Pair the dish with a cold, refreshing beverage like a margarita or iced tea.
• For a more substantial snack, add a side of fresh vegetable sticks like cucumber, carrot, and bell pepper.
• Include a variety of salsas on the side, such as a tangy tomatillo salsa or a smoky chipotle salsa for dipping.
• For a festive presentation, serve in a hollowed-out avocado shell or on a platter with assorted garnishes.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to ensure your guacamole and tortilla chips turn out perfectly every time:

1. Ripeness Check: Ensure the avocados are ripe but not overripe. They should be firm yet yield slightly under gentle pressure.
2. Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil at medium-high heat for the perfect crispiness in your tortilla chips without burning them.
3. Prevent Browning: If you need to prepare the guacamole in advance, place plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent oxidation.
4. Custom Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste preference, or omit it entirely for a milder guacamole.
5. Batch Cooking: If making for a large group, prepare the tortilla chips in batches to keep them fresh and crunchy.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the recipe:

1. Can I use store-bought tortilla chips? Yes, store-bought chips can be used in a pinch, but homemade chips offer a fresher, crisper taste.
2. How long can I store the guacamole? Guacamole is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
3. Can I make the guacamole spicy? Absolutely! Add more cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to increase the heat.
4. What’s the best way to mash the avocado? A fork or potato masher works well, allowing you to control the texture of the guacamole.
5. Can I freeze guacamole? Freezing is not recommended as it affects the creamy texture, but if necessary, store it in a freezer-safe container with minimal air exposure.

With this recipe, you are well on your way to enjoying a delicious and satisfying snack that is both authentic and fresh. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a taste of something delightful, guacamole with homemade tortilla chips is sure to be a hit at your table.