Guacamole

Historically I haven't been a fan of guacamole; I don't dislike it I just find it a little bland, uninspiring and well, mushy.

A few weeks ago, however, we visited our friends Dave and Esther for dinner and they served nachos with homemade guacamole to nibble on before the main event. Esther's guacamole was divine -  a garlicky and zesty taste explosion with a real kick from the chilli. Obviously I asked her to share the recipe but alas she couldn't as (in her laissez faire way) she had just thrown it together before we arrived. So, for the last few weeks Steve and I have been experimenting to try and recreate Esther's gorgeous guacamole and I think with the recipe below we have managed to get somewhere near.

This, my friends, is guacamole that even Speedy Gonzales would stop for.

Serves 2-4

Ingredients

• 1 avocado - peeled and cut into large chunks
• 1 shallot - peeled and finely diced
• 1 large clove garlic - crushed
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 small red chilli - finely chopped
• A small handful coriander - finely chopped
• Salt
• Black pepper - freshly ground

Method

1. Place the avocado, shallot, garlic, lime juice, red chilli and coriander into a mixing bowl. Mash the ingredients together with a fork until it is smooth but with a few chunks.
2. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Serve with nachos or crudites.