Guacamole Recipe Alton Brown

I believe the best guacamole recipe is one that balances simplicity with flavor that truly wows.

This twist on an easy Alton Brown guacamole recipe delivers exactly that, transforming a simple dip into a vibrant, smoky centerpiece with minimal effort. We’re taking the rich, creamy texture and adding a colorful chipotle swirl that adds a gentle kick, making it perfect for a family gathering or a healthy snack.

This easy method guarantees a crowd-pleaser that elevates homemade snacking without adding extra time or fuss. This particular guacamole recipe alton brown variation truly impresses guests with its deep, complex flavor and stunning visual appeal.

Ingredients

• 3 large, ripe Hass avocados (approximately 600 g total)
  For the creamiest base, choose Hass variety avocados. Select avocados where the skin yields slightly to gentle pressure when pressed, but isn’t mushy.
• 60 ml (1/4 cup) fresh lime juice, divided
  Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for preventing browning and balancing the richness of the avocado. Bottled juice lacks the brightness and can taste artificial.
• 5 g (1 teaspoon) kosher salt, or to taste
  Kosher salt provides a clean, clear salty flavor without being overpowering. Season in stages, adjusting to your personal preference after initial mixing.
• 50 g (1/4 cup) finely diced red onion
  Dice very finely to distribute the flavor evenly without overwhelming the texture. Rinsing the diced onion under cold water for 1 minute can remove some of the raw pungency, if desired.
• 15 g (1/4 cup loosely packed) fresh cilantro, chopped
  Use only fresh cilantro for its bright, herbaceous notes. If cilantro tastes like soap to you, you may substitute with fresh parsley or green onions instead.
• 1 small serrano pepper, minced (seeds removed for milder heat, optional)
  This ingredient provides a fresh, bright heat that cuts through the creaminess. Remove the seeds and white membrane (pith) for less heat, or leave them in for extra spice.
• 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  Use 1 chipotle pepper for moderate heat and smokiness, or 2 for a deeper flavor profile. The chipotle pepper provides the distinctive smoky element of this guacamole recipe alton brown variation.
• 15 ml (1 tablespoon) adobo sauce (from the can of chipotles)
  This sauce adds additional depth of flavor, a touch of acidity, and a vibrant color to the swirl paste.
• 5 ml (1 teaspoon) neutral-flavored vegetable oil (e.g., sunflower or canola)
  A small amount of oil helps emulsify the chipotle swirl paste for better texture and enhances the vibrancy of the color.

Instructions

1. 1. Prepare the Avocados
   Halve the avocados by slicing around the pit and twisting to separate. Remove the pits and scoop the flesh into a medium mixing bowl. Use a fork or a potato masher to mash the avocados to your desired consistency – leave it chunky for texture or mash until mostly smooth.
2. 2. Combine Guacamole Ingredients
   Add 55 ml (slightly less than 1/4 cup) of the fresh lime juice, the kosher salt, finely diced red onion, and chopped fresh cilantro to the mashed avocado. Gently fold in the minced serrano pepper, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the base. Mix just enough to combine everything; over-mixing will release excess water from the vegetables.
3. 3. Create the Chipotle Swirl Paste
   In a small food processor or using a mortar and pestle, combine the chipotle peppers in adobo, the 15 ml (1 tablespoon) of adobo sauce, the remaining 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of lime juice, and the 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of neutral vegetable oil. Process or mash until a smooth, vibrant red-orange paste forms; make sure there are no large chunks remaining. If the paste is too thick, add a drop or two more adobo sauce to thin it slightly. This easy Alton Brown guacamole recipe is visually stunning with the swirl.
4. 4. Swirl and Serve
   Spoon the prepared guacamole into your chosen serving bowl, creating a smooth, even surface. Dollop spoonfuls of the smoky chipotle swirl paste onto the surface of the guacamole. Using the back of a spoon or a knife, gently swirl the paste into the guacamole, creating distinct ribbons and streaks of color. Avoid fully mixing it in to maintain the visual contrast. This guacamole recipe alton brown method creates a beautiful presentation for any family meal.

The Best Serving Suggestions for Guacamole

This guacamole recipe alton brown variation is versatile enough to be served in many ways, making it an excellent addition to any family meal. The smoky chipotle flavor pairs well with robust, savory dishes, not just plain chips.

• With sturdy corn tortilla chips: The heartiness of this guacamole makes it perfect for scooping. Choose thick-cut tortilla chips that won’t break when dipped in this creamy, chunky dip.
• As a topping for tacos or burritos: Spoon this guacamole directly onto grilled chicken, steak tacos, or black bean burritos for a high-protein, family-friendly meal upgrade.
• Paired with fresh vegetables: Offer bell pepper slices, cucumber spears, or carrot sticks for a healthier dipping option that balances the richness of the avocado.
• As part of a full meal: Use this guacamole on burgers, wraps, or as a flavorful side dish with grilled salmon for an easy, healthy dinner idea.

Smart Swaps and Variations for Your Guacamole

The beauty of this easy guacamole recipe is how adaptable it is to different preferences and dietary needs. If you want to customize the heat or texture, try these simple swaps.

• Add a different kick: If you want to maintain a smoky flavor but add a different texture, try adding finely diced roasted red peppers instead of serrano pepper.
• Make it milder: To control the heat level for kids, omit the serrano pepper completely and use only a small amount of the chipotle swirl paste.
• Try different herbs: If you don’t enjoy cilantro (for me, it’s essential for this dish, but I understand some disagree), substitute with 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley for a similar herbaceous note.
• Dairy-free creaminess: For an extra rich and smooth texture, fold in a spoonful of cashew cream or dairy-free sour cream to the base guacamole before adding the swirl.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage for Guacamole

Guacamole is best served fresh, but if you need to prepare it ahead for a party or meal prep, here are the most effective ways to prevent browning and keep it fresh.

• Preventing browning: To keep this guacamole fresh for longer, store it in an airtight container with a piece of plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface before sealing the lid. This eliminates air contact, which causes oxidation.
• The lime juice trick: Squeezing a small amount of extra lime juice over the top before storing can also help slow down oxidation and preserve the color for up to 24 hours.
• Water storage method: For a longer hold (up to 24 hours), smooth the guacamole into an airtight container, then pour a thin layer of cold water over the top. Drain completely before serving and stir gently to refresh.
• Proper temperature: Guacamole is best served at room temperature, so let it sit out for 15-20 minutes after taking it from the fridge to improve texture and flavor.

FAQs

How do I choose a ripe avocado?

Look for an avocado that feels heavy for its size and yields slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed. Avoid avocados that are mushy or have dark spots, as these indicate overripeness or bruising.

How do I prevent my guacamole from turning brown?

The best method for storing guacamole is to press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing the container, eliminating air contact. The lime juice in this guacamole recipe alton brown variation also helps significantly slow down oxidation, keeping it green for longer.

Can I make this guacamole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the base guacamole up to 24 hours in advance if stored properly. However, add the fresh cilantro and perform the chipotle swirl just before serving for the best results and visual appeal. I find that chilling the base overnight actually deepens the flavor before serving, a great meal prep trick.

Is this recipe too spicy for children?

The heat level is fully adjustable in this family-friendly recipe. To make it milder, remove the seeds from the serrano pepper and reduce the amount of chipotle swirl paste. You can also serve the smoky swirl on the side, allowing family members to add heat to their preference.

What’s the difference between this and Alton Brown’s classic recipe?

While Alton Brown’s classic emphasizes a simple, pure guacamole with a focus on perfectly ripe ingredients, this version adds a smoky chipotle element. The chipotle swirl provides a deeper, more complex flavor profile and visual appeal, elevating the dip for special occasions.

Why do I need to add oil to the chipotle swirl?

The oil in the chipotle paste helps create a smooth, emulsified texture and enhances the vibrancy of the color. It also helps carry the smoky flavor more effectively through the dip, making the swirl more distinct in the final guacamole recipe alton brown variation.

Is this guacamole healthy for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this guacamole is naturally low-carb and suitable for high-protein, keto, and gluten-free diets. The avocados provide healthy fats, and the added vegetables and chipotle swirl provide a flavorful snack without added sugars or starches.

Conclusion

This easy guacamole recipe alton brown variation with a smoky chipotle swirl is a fantastic way to elevate a simple snack into something special and flavorful. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your Pinterest board to quickly find it for future family gatherings or quick, healthy meals!

guacamole recipe alton brown

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• Author: Sarah Mali
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This twist on an easy guacamole recipe delivers a vibrant, smoky dip with minimal effort by adding a chipotle swirl for a gentle kick and stunning visual appeal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 large, ripe Hass avocados (approximately 600 g total)
• 60 ml (1/4 cup) fresh lime juice, divided
• 5 g (1 teaspoon) kosher salt, or to taste
• 50 g (1/4 cup) finely diced red onion
• 15 g (1/4 cup loosely packed) fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 small serrano pepper, minced (seeds removed for milder heat, optional)
• 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 15 ml (1 tablespoon) adobo sauce (from the can of chipotles)
• 5 ml (1 teaspoon) neutral-flavored vegetable oil (e.g., sunflower or canola)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Avocados: Halve the avocados by slicing around the pit and twisting to separate. Remove the pits and scoop the flesh into a medium mixing bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to mash the avocados to your desired consistency (chunky or smooth).
2. Combine Guacamole Ingredients: Add 55 ml (slightly less than 1/4 cup) of the fresh lime juice, the kosher salt, finely diced red onion, and chopped fresh cilantro to the mashed avocado. Gently fold in the minced serrano pepper, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
3. Create the Chipotle Swirl Paste: In a small food processor or using a mortar and pestle, combine the chipotle peppers in adobo, the 15 ml (1 tablespoon) of adobo sauce, the remaining 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of lime juice, and the 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of neutral vegetable oil. Process or mash until a smooth, vibrant red-orange paste forms.
4. Swirl and Serve: Spoon the prepared guacamole into your chosen serving bowl, creating a smooth, even surface. Dollop spoonfuls of the smoky chipotle swirl paste onto the surface. Using the back of a spoon or a knife, gently swirl the paste into the guacamole to create distinct ribbons and streaks of color, avoiding fully mixing it in.

Notes

To reduce the raw pungency of the red onion, rinse the diced onion under cold water for 1 minute before adding it to the guacamole. If you dislike cilantro, substitute with fresh parsley or green onions. For less heat from the serrano pepper, remove the seeds and white membrane (pith).

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Appetizer/Dip
• Method: No-Cook/Mixing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 cup (approximately 60 g)
• Calories: 180 calories
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13.5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg