INGREDIENTS
Origin
Guacamole has roots in Aztec cuisine, traditionally made by mashing avocado with salt and lime. The name comes from the Nahuatl word 'āhuacamolli,' combining āhuacatl (avocado) and molli (sauce). Every region — and every kitchen — puts its own spin on it.
Pro Tips
- Pick avocados that give slightly when pressed — too firm and the guacamole will be gluey; too soft and the flavor turns. If yours need ripening, leave them at room temperature for a day or two.
- The Guacamole Mix seasoning saves you from over-salting — fold it in before you reach for the salt shaker and taste first.
- For the Avocado Ranch Swirl, make the full half cup and keep the remainder as a dip or salad dressing — it works well on its own too.
Things to Watch Out For
- Don't skip tasting after adding the Guacamole Mix before adding more salt — the seasoning already carries flavor. For the Smoky Chipotle variation, chipotle in adobo is potent; add it gradually rather than all at once. Everything bagel seasoning can make the guacamole quite salty, so hold back on extra salt until after you've stirred it in and tasted.
Process
Base Method
- Prepare the Sauce Pantry Guacamole Mix: mix the sachet contents with 2 oz water and 2 oz oil until combined. Set aside.
- Halve and pit the avocados. Scoop the flesh into a medium mixing bowl, add the lime juice and sea salt, then mash with a fork to your preferred texture — chunky for a rustic dip, or fully smooth for a creamier result.
- Stir in the red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and garlic. Fold in the prepared Guacamole Mix until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust salt or lime as needed.
- Continue with your chosen variation below, or serve as-is.
Variations
Variation 1 — Classic Smooth
- Mash the base until fully creamy before adding the aromatics. Serve immediately.
Variation 2 — Mango & Lime
- Gently fold in the diced mango and an extra squeeze of lime juice. Serve right away — the mango softens quickly.
Variation 3 — Smoky Chipotle
- Fold in the minced chipotle in adobo. Start with the full teaspoon, taste, and add a little more if you want more heat.
Variation 4 — Everything Bagel
- Stir the everything bagel seasoning through the finished guacamole or sprinkle over the top just before serving. Note that everything bagel seasoning is typically salty — taste before adding extra salt.
Variation 5 — Avocado Ranch Swirl
- Prepare the Sauce Pantry Avocado Ranch by mixing the sachet contents into 1/2 cup of sour cream, yogurt, or mayonnaise until smooth. Swirl 2–3 tablespoons of this mixture into the finished guacamole just before serving. Reserve the rest as a dipping sauce or dressing on the side.
