Are you ready to take your entertaining game to the next level? Look no further than the ultimate crowd-pleaser: The Best Tableside Guacamole Recipe
We ordered this at Boudrouxs on the San Antonio Riverwalk a few years ago and I was hooked. I decided to make it at home and it was a HUGE hit.
The first time I ever made it was for a Super Bowl party and I actually had to make more at halftime because everyone loved it so much.
There are few changes that really elevate this guacamole recipe compared to the typical recipe we have all been making at home.
First, using freshly squeezed orange instead of lime adds a delicious sweetness with the acidity.
And second, the use of purple onions instead of the typical yellow again adds to the complexity of the flavors. These two small changes make a HUGE difference in the flavor of your guacamole.
Third, the roasted serranos and tomatoes add another level of flavor. These can be roasted ahead and kept in the fridge until you are ready to use them. If you don’t have time to roast them, no worries. I have made it many times with fresh tomatoes and It is still just as delicious.
There’s something truly magical about the act of preparing guacamole right in front of your guests. Not only does it ensure that the guac is as fresh as can be, but it also adds an interactive element to any party, making it a memorable experience for everyone involved.
Today, I’m sharing with you my tried-and-true tableside guacamole recipe that never fails to impress.
With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of finesse, you’ll be whipping up the best guac your guests have ever tasted.
Ingredients for the Best Tableside Guacamole Recipe:
- 3 ripe avocados
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (Optional – I typically leave this out)
- 1-2 roasted serranos, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat, if desired) – if you don’t have time to roast them, fresh will also work.
- 1 roasted Roma tomato, diced
- Juice of 1/2 small naval orange
- Salt and pepper to taste
See Also: The Best French Dip Sliders
Instructions for the Best Tableside Guacamole Recipe:
- Start by halving the avocados and removing the pits. Scoop the flesh into a molcajete (traditional Mexican mortar and pestle) or a large bowl.
- Using a fork or a molcajete, mash the avocado to your desired consistency. Some prefer it smooth, while others like it chunky—I personally enjoy a bit of both!
- Add the diced red onion, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeños, and diced tomato to the mashed avocado.
- Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to combine.
- Taste the guacamole and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like it tangier, squeeze in the juice of another lime.
- Serve the guacamole immediately, preferably in the molcajete or a decorative bowl. Garnish with additional cilantro leaves or a slice of lime for a pop of color.
- Don’t forget the chips! Offer a variety of tortilla chips for dipping, including traditional corn, multigrain, or even sweet potato chips for a unique twist.
Now comes the best part: the presentation.
Serve in a molcajete to add to the authenticity of the recipe.
Tips for the Best Tableside Guacamole Recipe:
- Choose Ripe Avocados: The key to creamy guacamole is using ripe avocados. Look for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed. If they’re too firm, your guac will be lumpy; if they’re too soft, it may be overly mushy.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients possible for the best flavor. This includes ripe tomatoes, crisp cilantro, and juicy limes.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone’s taste buds are different, so don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Taste as you go and add more lime, salt, or pepper as needed.
- Control the Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before dicing them. Conversely, if you love heat, leave some seeds in or even add a dash of hot sauce.
- Mash to Preference: How smooth or chunky you want your guacamole is entirely up to you. Some people prefer it completely smooth, while others like it with some texture. Use a fork, potato masher, or molcajete to achieve your desired consistency.
- Keep It Fresh: Guacamole oxidizes quickly, so it’s best served immediately after making it. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole to prevent air exposure. Even then, it’s best to add the lime juice just before serving to help preserve the green color.
- Enhance Presentation: Serve your guacamole in a molcajete for an authentic touch, or choose a decorative bowl to make it visually appealing. Garnish with a sprig of cilantro, a slice of lime, or a sprinkle of diced tomatoes for added flair.
- Offer a Variety of Chips: While traditional tortilla chips are always a hit, consider offering a selection of different flavors and textures, such as multigrain, blue corn, or even plantain chips. This adds variety and keeps things interesting.
- Make It a Social Experience: The beauty of tableside guacamole is the interactive aspect. Involve your guests in the preparation process by letting them help mash the avocados or chop the ingredients. It’s a fun way to bond and create lasting memories together.
Q&A for the Best Tableside Guac
Can I make tableside guacamole ahead of time?
While it’s best to serve guacamole immediately after making it to prevent oxidation and maintain freshness, you can prepare some of the ingredients ahead of time. For example, you can chop the onions, tomatoes, and cilantro in advance and store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Then, when you’re ready to serve, simply mash the avocados and mix in the prepped ingredients along with fresh lime juice, salt, and pepper.
How do I prevent my guacamole from turning brown?
Guacamole oxidizes quickly when exposed to air, causing it to turn brown. To prevent this, make sure to cover the guacamole tightly with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole to minimize air exposure. Additionally, adding lime juice to the guacamole helps to slow down the oxidation process and preserve the green color.
Can I customize the ingredients in my guacamole?
Absolutely! Guacamole is incredibly versatile, and you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add additional ingredients such as diced mango, pineapple, or corn for a fruity twist, or incorporate spices like cumin or chili powder for extra flavor. You can also adjust the level of heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños or opting for a spicier variety of peppers.
What can I serve with tableside guacamole besides tortilla chips?
While tortilla chips are a classic accompaniment to guacamole, there are plenty of other options to consider. Try serving it with sliced vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a lighter, healthier option. You can also use guacamole as a topping for tacos, nachos, burgers, or grilled meats for a delicious flavor boost.
Can I make guacamole without cilantro?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can omit it from the recipe or substitute it with another herb such as parsley or basil. Keep in mind that cilantro adds a distinctive flavor to guacamole, so you may need to adjust the seasonings accordingly to compensate for its absence.
This Post Was All About the Best Tableside Guacamole Recipe
Tableside guacamole isn’t just a dish—it’s an event. So why wait for your next fiesta? Gather your friends and family, grab your ingredients, and get ready to elevate your gathering with the best tableside guacamole recipe around. Trust me, once you go tableside, you’ll never go back!
And if you’re ever in San Antonio you absolutely must visit Boudro’s on the Riverwalk and get their prickly pear margarita and tableside guac. You can thank me later:)
If you try this recipe, leave a comment below to let me know how you liked it. And if there is anything you like to add to your tableside guac.