RECIPE: Taco Shop Guacamole / Guacamole Taquero

Avocados are expensive and traditional guacamole might be an appetizer I forgo at a dinner party if I’d rather spend the money elsewhere. According to this Business Insider article, “avocado prices have rocketed in recent years by up to 129%, with the average national price of a single Hass avocado reaching $2.10 in 2019, almost doubling in just one year.” This is all bad news - until one figures out how to stretch the creamy avocado goodness.

This recipe is how taquerias stretch their guacamole taste on a tomatillo budget. It’s easy, fun and a sure way to impress your dinner guests. If you prefer something a bit spicier, add serrano chiles or more jalapenos. Want the sauce a little thinner? Great - add a dash of water to the blender. Note on the cilantro: Mexican cooks keep the stems when cooking with cilantro. It adds an interesting texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 avocado, pit removed, cubed

• 4-6 medium tomatillos, quartered

• 1 jalapeno, stem removed, halved

• 1/4 white onion

• 1 clove of garlic, peeled

• juice of 1/2 a lime

• salt to taste

• 10 sprigs of cilantro

Method:

1. Put all the ingredients in the blender. Blend until smooth, thinning and stirring as necessary.

2. Serve with cooked tacos, totopos, or fresh veggies.