Guacamole, a dip made from ripe avocados, can be served alongside tortilla chips, crackers or fresh vegetables. Guacamole can also be used as a topping for tacos, enchiladas, fish and other dishes featuring Mexican flavors.
History
Guacamole originated in the Aztec culture. Its name is derived from a word in the the Aztec language that translates to "avocado sauce." Aztecs made guacamole by mashing ingredients in a mortar and pestle called a "molcajete."
Ingredients
Mashed avocado is the main ingredient in guacamole. Other common ingredients include salt, pepper, lime or lemon juice, chopped onion or scallions, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, chopped tomatoes and minced serrano or jalapeno chiles.
Variations
Avocado dip is similar to guacamole but includes sour cream or mayonnaise, which gives the dip a creamier texture. The addition of such ingredients to traditional guacamole adds extra fat and dilutes the avocado flavor. Prepared guacamole sold in supermarkets is better characterized as avocado dip.
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