GUACAMOLE

MAKES ABOUT 1-1/2 CUPS

It took many years for me to appreciate the avocado. My mother likes to eat them sliced with just a little vinegar, salt and pepper. Occasionally, I put them in a salad. But nothing can compare to a good Guacamole. Serve this quick and easy recipe as a dip with tortilla chips, or as a condiment with tacos, burritos, wraps or sandwiches. If, like me, you are not a fan of cilantro, just omit it, or use dried cilantro leaves, which add an herbal flavor without the assertiveness of the fresh.

INGREDIENTS

2 large avocados

3 tablespoons chopped onion

3 large garlic cloves

2 tablespoons chopped chiles, or to taste

2 tablespoons chopped red pepper or pimento

Juice of 1 lime

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 tablespoons sour cream (I use reduced fat)

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, more to taste

1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

Dash of hot sauce, or to taste

Cut the avocados in half around the pit; discard pit. Squeeze each half over processor bowl; the meat will easily slide out of the skin. Add all other ingredients, reserving a little of the citrus juices until you are certan the mixture will not get too thin. Process until desired texture, but not too smooth. Taste for seasonings and add what is needed. Refrigerate until use.

Notes: The avocados should be very ripe to make Guacamole. If they need additional ripening after purchase, place them in a brown paper bag with an apple and set out at room temperature overnight. They will ripen quickly. An alternative to using the processor is to just chop everything finely and mash the avocado with the back of a fork or spoon. It is also very good chunky instead of mashed. The recipe can be made in any amount and the ingredients can be adjusted as desired, with some omitted and others, such as chopped tomatoes, added. The citrus juice is essential to prevent browning of the avocados. Many recipes call for lime only, but I have found that a little lemon, which is more acidic, helps the Guacamole keep longer in the refrigerator. I also heard that the enzymes in the sour cream help prevent browning, which might be why mine stays fresh for several days. And, I think the chunky version keeps longer as well. This recipe can be made in any amount. Place leftovers in a bowl and cover the entire surface of the guacamole with plastic wrap to help prevent browning. If the top browns slightly, just scrape it off and discard.

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