Corn and Mezcal Guacamole

Corn and Mezcal Guacamole is a culinary delight that stands out in the world of traditional guacamole recipes. This dish takes the creamy, lush textures and rich flavors of the Tropical Avocado to new heights by pairing it with the smoky sophistication of mezcal and the sweet, charred notes of corn. It’s a recipe that not only respects the roots of its classic predecessor but also ventures boldly into a realm of deeper, more complex flavors.

The heart of this guacamole lies in the Tropical Avocado, a variety celebrated for its mild flavor and buttery consistency, making it an ideal foundation for the bold and smoky notes of mezcal. This special avocado variety seamlessly absorbs and melds with the mezcal’s distinctive smokiness, creating a harmonious base that is both rich and nuanced. The inclusion of mezcal, a spirit distilled from agave, introduces an element of depth and complexity, infusing the guacamole with an echo of ancient culinary traditions and the earthy essence of Mexican terroir.

What is a tropical avocado?

A Tropical Avocado, often larger and lighter in color than the well-known Hass variety, features smooth, bright green skin and a less dense, more buttery flesh. These avocados are characterized by their mild flavor and are particularly popular in the Caribbean and parts of South America. Tropical Avocados are appreciated for their longer shelf life and slower ripening process, making them a favored choice for a variety of dishes. Using Tropical Avocado in guacamole enhances the dish with its mild flavor and creamy texture, allowing the complementary flavors to stand out while offering a generous yield and better shelf life.

Adding to the complexity of this dish, charred corn kernels bring a touch of sweetness and a smoky flavor that mirrors the mezcal’s aromatic profile. This charred corn not only contributes a delightful crunch but also introduces a caramel-like sweetness that perfectly balances the creamy avocado and the tangy lime juice. The result is a multi-layered taste experience where each spoonful reveals a new flavor dimension, from the initial smoky intrigue to the lingering sweetness of the corn.

Finely chopped red onion and jalapeño pepper are meticulously folded into the guacamole, offering a crisp texture and a gentle heat that cuts through the richness of the avocado. These vibrant additions are essential for their ability to introduce brightness and lift the overall flavor profile, ensuring that each bite is as refreshing as it is satisfying.

Cilantro and lime juice are the final touches that bring freshness and zest to the dish, their vibrant flavors enhancing the natural qualities of the Tropical Avocado and the smoky mezcal. The cilantro adds a burst of herbal freshness, while the lime juice provides a necessary acidity that elevates the guacamole from merely rich and creamy to distinctly lively and invigorating.

Corn and Mezcal Guacamole is a celebration of texture and taste. It’s a testament to the power of combining traditional ingredients with innovative elements to create something entirely new yet familiar. This guacamole is perfect for those seeking to impress at gatherings or simply looking to indulge in a snack that is both nutritious and gourmet.

Corn and Mezcal Guacamole is a bold reinterpretation of a classic, inviting both aficionados and newcomers alike to explore the rich tapestry of flavors that can emerge from the thoughtful blending of simple, quality ingredients. It stands as a vibrant homage to the versatility of the avocado, showcasing the Tropical Avocado’s ability to transform a familiar dish into an extraordinary culinary adventure.

Corn and Mezcal Guacamole

Recipe by Kyle Taylor

5.0 from 1 vote

Course: SidesCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Total time

40

minutes

This Corn and Mezcal Guacamole combines the creamy richness of Tropical Avocado with the smoky depth of mezcal and sweet char of corn, creating a unique, flavorful twist on the classic dip.

Ingredients

• 1 large tropical avocado

• 1 cup corn kernels

• 1 small red onion, diced

• 1 small jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon mezcal

• 1 lime, juiced

• 1/4 cup cilantro, freshly chopped

• to taste, salt and ground black pepper

Directions

• Prepare the Corn:
  Char the corn in a hot skillet until golden and slightly charred, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside to cool.
• Mash the Avocado:
  In a large mixing bowl, gently mash the avocado to your desired consistency.
• Combine Ingredients:
  To the mashed avocado, add the charred corn, red onion, jalapeño, mezcal, and lime juice. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. The mezcal will introduce a smoky undertone that complements the sweetness of the corn and the richness of the avocado.
• Season and Chill:
  Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the lime juice according to your preference for acidity. Cover and chill for about 30 minutes prior to serving to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Serve:
  Serve immediately with your choice of chips. Garnish with cilantro, lime, and or a dash of chili powder.