Guacamole is a simple and effective dip which has quickly grown to become a regular guest at parties and functions throughout suburban America. We love guacamole because it is the perfect dip: delicious, easy to prepare, and very healthy, with a high level of monounsaturated fats which
help to reduce cholesterol.
Fresh guacamole has an inviting vibrant green color, however, anyone who has made their own guacamole will know that in a matter of hours it can turn into a yucky brown mush that barely resembles the delicious superfood you intended for your guests. Whilst brown guacamole won’t hurt you at all, it really isn’t terribly appetizing and will often go uneaten!
Why does guacamole turn brown?According to the
University of Florida's Food Science Department, guacamole turns brown due to oxidization, i.e. it reacts with the oxygen in the air in a similar way which a freshly-cut apple would begin to turn brown. Guacamole oxidizes very quickly, usually within a few hours of cutting the avocados.
How can you stop your guacamole turning brown? Simple really, just apply these
four simple tricks to avoid guaca-NO-le.
Add more lemon/lime juiceLemon or lime juice is already an ingredient used in the making of guacamole. The acidity of the citrus fruit balances the richness of the avocados nicely. Also, the acid in citrus fruit helps to stop the oxidation of the guacamole, keeping it fresh and green for longer.
Put the avocado seed/pit in the guacamoleThe stone at the center of an avocado - sometimes referred to as the seed or the pit - is a natural remedy to guacamole browning, which can help simply by placing the avocado pits in the prepared guacamole. The avocado stone absorbs the oxygen which otherwise would interact with the guacamole, helping it stay fresher for longer.
Store guacamole with a layer of water on topIf you want to keep your guacamole fresh overnight, simply put it in a relevant container and add a thin layer of water over the top. The water will protect the guacamole from oxidizing, and can easily be poured off when you are ready to eat the rest.
Seal guacamole with plastic wrapThe oxidation of guacamole can also be stopped if the dip is sealed in plastic wrap with no air inside. The plastic wrap doesn’t allow the oxygen to attack the guacamole, making sure it remains fresh and green for longer.
Simple really! Guacamole has become a staple addition to American parties. By following these tips you will be able to continue to dazzle your friends and family with delicious party snacks, and you may well have them wondering: “How does they do it?”.
