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Southern Style Guacamole
We tend to think of guacamole solely in the context of Mexican cuisine, though of course you'll also find similar avocado-based condiments in Central and South American cooking as well as in the Caribbean. Even this may be too narrow of a way of looking at guacamole, since even a basic guacamole recipe provides adventurous cooks with plenty of room to experiment.
One flavor combination which works especially well but that you may not have thought of before is the Cajun-style flavors of Louisiana. It's a different kind of spicy cuisine, though many of the flavors will be found in Mexican (hot pepper, onion, tomato) as well as Caribbean (thyme) cooking, both cuisines where avocado is commonly used.
One surprising difference you'll find in this Louisiana-style guacamole recipe is the use of lemon, rather than lime juice. It's a small change, but one which adds a different kind of bright acidity and flavors to this delectable dip.
Spicy Cajun-Style Guacamole
Ingredients -
4 ripe avocados
1 red bell pepper, diced
Juice of 1-2 lemons
1 cup small cherry tomatoes (halved or quartered, if they're larger)
½ cup green onion, thinly sliced
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp. fresh thyme leaves, chopped or ½ tsp dried thyme
1 tsp. cayenne pepper
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Preparation:
Like other guacamole recipes, you'll find that this is actually pretty easy to prepare, so even if you've never made it yourself before, don't worry, you'll do fine!
Chop the tomatoes, onions, garlic and thyme and set aside.
Peel and mash the avocados with a potato masher or in a food processor.
Add to a bowl and mix with the other ingredients, then the lemon juice.
Season to taste with salt and black pepper and serve with tortilla chips or thin slices of fresh baguette.
If you won't be serving this guacamole right away, cover tightly and refrigerate - use within 1-2 days.
(Serves 6)
Photo Description:
While this may be a little bit different as far as guacamole recipes go, it's not at all hard to make and makes as good of an introduction to preparing your own guacamole as any. Spicy, savory and wonderful with chips or with any dish you would customarily enjoy with guacamole, this Louisiana style guacamole recipe is one which is well worth giving a try. No one could ever get sick of traditional Mexican style guacamole, but if you're feeling like taking on a slightly different take on this irresistible dip, try this Cajun-inspired variation and you'll be in for a treat.
