Guacamole with Ham and Corn is a beloved classic dip in Mexican cuisine, known for its fresh ingredients and rich, creamy texture. Traditionally made with mashed avocados, tomatoes, onions, and lime, guacamole is often served with tortilla chips, tacos, and other Mexican dishes.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

4 medium avocados, halved and pitted
3 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons white onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, seeds and ribs removed, finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon sea salt
Pinch of cayenne pepper
1/2 cup corn kernels
2 strips bacon
1/4 cup cotija cheese
2 tablespoons pickled red onion
5 cherry tomatoes, chopped
Tortilla chips for serving

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cook the Bacon: Place the bacon strips on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Bake until crispy, about 15-20 minutes. Once done, let them cool and then crumble into small pieces.
Char the Corn: Heat a small frying pan over high heat. Add the corn kernels and let them sit without stirring until they begin to char. Stir occasionally to char evenly. Once done, set aside to cool.
Prepare the Avocados: Scoop the flesh of the avocados into a bowl. Using a potato masher or fork, mash them to your desired consistency, leaving some chunks for texture.
Season the Guacamole: To the mashed avocados, add lime juice, chopped white onion, cilantro, jalapeño, ground coriander, ground cumin, sea salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Mix well to combine.
Incorporate Corn and Bacon: Stir in half of the charred corn and half of the crumbled bacon into the guacamole mixture.
Serve: Transfer the guacamole to a serving bowl. Garnish with the remaining charred corn, crumbled bacon, cotija cheese, pickled red onion, and chopped cherry tomatoes. Serve immediately with tortilla chips.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 250
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 400mg
Total Carbohydrates: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 7g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 6g

A Modern Twist on Classic Guacamole

Guacamole has been around for centuries, originating from the Aztecs, who were the first to cultivate avocados. The name “guacamole” comes from the Aztec Nahuatl word “ahuacamolli,” which is a combination of “ahuacatl” (avocado) and “molli” (sauce). Over time, guacamole has evolved to include various additional ingredients, such as tomatoes, garlic, cilantro, and lime, but its core ingredient remains the avocado.

This particular guacamole recipe introduces two elements that enhance the dip’s flavor and texture: charred corn and crispy bacon. The charred corn adds a subtle smokiness and sweetness, while the bacon introduces a satisfying crunch and savory umami flavor. The combination of these ingredients makes this guacamole a more substantial, indulgent option, perfect for those who love a bit of extra flavor and texture in their dips.

The Perfect Avocado for Guacamole

Avocados are the heart of any guacamole, and selecting the right one is essential to achieving the perfect texture and flavor. When shopping for avocados, look for ones that are ripe but not overripe. A ripe avocado will yield slightly to gentle pressure but should not feel mushy or have dark spots. The best way to check for ripeness is to gently press the avocado and see if it yields slightly but still feels firm.

Hass avocados are the most common variety used for guacamole due to their creamy texture and rich flavor. They have a dark, bumpy skin and are typically smaller than other varieties. Once ripe, the flesh is smooth and buttery, making it ideal for mashing into guacamole. If you’re unable to find ripe avocados, you can also purchase ones that are still firm and let them ripen at room temperature for a few days.

The Role of Lime and Other Flavor Enhancers

Lime juice is a crucial component of guacamole, providing a zesty, refreshing contrast to the richness of the avocado. Lime not only adds a bright, tangy flavor but also helps prevent the guacamole from turning brown too quickly. The acid in the lime slows down the oxidation process and keeps the guacamole looking fresh for longer.

In addition to lime juice, other flavor enhancers in this recipe include cilantro, onions, and jalapeños. Cilantro adds a burst of freshness and a slight citrusy note, while onions provide a mild sharpness that balances the creaminess of the avocado. Jalapeños offer a touch of heat, which can be adjusted depending on your preference. For those who prefer a milder dip, the seeds and ribs of the jalapeño can be removed before chopping.

Charred Corn: A Sweet and Smoky Addition

Corn adds a delightful sweetness and texture to guacamole, and when charred, it takes on a smoky flavor that complements the richness of the avocado. To achieve the perfect charred corn, you can either grill it on the cob or use frozen corn kernels in a hot pan. The key is to cook the corn over high heat until it develops a slightly crispy, browned exterior.

The charred corn adds not only flavor but also texture, providing a pleasant contrast to the creamy mashed avocado. This addition makes the guacamole more filling and satisfying, turning it into a more substantial dish that can even serve as a side dish or a topping for other foods like tacos, grilled chicken, or burgers.

Bacon: Crispy, Savory, and Irresistible

Bacon is another game-changing ingredient in this guacamole recipe. Its crispy texture and savory, smoky flavor bring a whole new dimension to the dip. The richness of the bacon balances out the sweetness of the corn and the creaminess of the avocado, making the guacamole more indulgent and flavorful. The key to incorporating bacon into guacamole is to cook it until it’s crispy but not burnt. Once the bacon cools, crumble it into small pieces and stir it into the guacamole, saving some for garnish on top.

The addition of bacon also makes the guacamole heartier and more satisfying, which is perfect for those who enjoy a rich, umami-packed dip. Bacon lovers will particularly appreciate how it enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish, adding depth and complexity.

Cotija Cheese and Pickled Red Onion: Garnishes That Elevate the Flavor

The final touches on this guacamole recipe are the cotija cheese and pickled red onions, which add layers of flavor and texture. Cotija is a crumbly, salty cheese that is often used in Mexican cuisine. It has a tangy, mildly salty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado and the savory bacon. A generous sprinkle of cotija cheese on top of the guacamole adds richness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Pickled red onions offer a tangy, slightly sweet contrast to the richness of the other ingredients. The acidity from the pickled onions cuts through the fat of the avocado and bacon, balancing the dip and adding a pop of color. Pickled onions are easy to make at home by soaking thinly sliced onions in a mixture of vinegar, water, and sugar, but they can also be purchased pre-made at many grocery stores.

Serving Suggestions for Guacamole

Guacamole is a versatile dip that can be enjoyed in many ways. The traditional serving method is with tortilla chips, which provide a crisp, neutral base that complements the richness of the guacamole. However, this guacamole also pairs well with a variety of other foods. Serve it alongside tacos, nachos, or fajitas for a complete meal. It can also be used as a topping for grilled meats like chicken, beef, or pork, adding freshness and a burst of flavor.

For a more indulgent experience, serve the guacamole with freshly baked quesadillas or a hearty burrito. You can even use it as a spread on sandwiches or burgers, adding a creamy, flavorful layer to your favorite dishes. The possibilities are endless, and this guacamole will undoubtedly become a go-to recipe for various occasions.

Nutritional Benefits of Guacamole

While guacamole is often associated with indulgence, it can also offer several health benefits when made with wholesome ingredients. Avocados are an excellent source of healthy fats, specifically monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. They are also rich in fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

In addition to healthy fats and fiber, avocados contain a variety of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, and folate, which is important for cell function and growth. The corn and bacon in this recipe also contribute to the overall nutritional profile, with corn providing fiber and antioxidants, while bacon adds protein and essential nutrients.

However, as with any dip, it’s important to enjoy guacamole in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake. The rich ingredients like avocado and bacon can add up in calories, so be mindful of portion sizes. Serving guacamole with fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper slices is a great way to enjoy it while keeping the calorie count in check.

Conclusion

This Best Guacamole Recipe with Corn and Bacon is a perfect twist on the classic guacamole. The combination of creamy avocado, sweet charred corn, and crispy bacon creates a flavorful, hearty dip that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Whether you’re serving it at a party, enjoying it as a snack, or using it as a topping for your favorite dishes, this guacamole is sure to be a hit.

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