Looking for a savory and sweet dip that will wake up your taste buds? My Guacamole with Balsamic Reduction fits the bill and it is a guacamole without tomatoes!
What's In This Article
Guacamole with Balsamic Reduction is a great, new twist on an old favorite. Perfect for every party or just an afternoon snack.
Guacamole might seem like a trusty standby that can’t be improved upon, but I like to think of it as a blank slate; an opportunity to experiment. To me, it can be a vehicle for new flavors and textures.
Make sure you PIN this Guacamole Recipe!
A new restaurant opened here in Baltimore recently. Since my initial visit, I have gone back two times. Not for the entrees, not for the service, not for the hand-crafted cocktails…for the gourmet guacamole!
My eyes zeroed in on an appetizer and I had no choice but to order it for my entree. Their Guacamole with Balsamic Reduction (and their Bacon Salsa) were revolutionary. And to be honest, I didn’t even miss the tacos.
It was so dang good, I just had to make my own version. And now, it is one of my most requested appetizer recipes. Truth be told, I made a few little changes to really amp up the flavor profile for this guacamole.
Instead of adding the usual suspects: tomato and onion, I added sauteed shallot, roasted red pepper, and roasted garlic. That paired with cilantro and a sweet balsamic reduction made for a winning combo.
When looking for avocados, make sure the skin is dark and that when you give them a gentle squeeze, each one gives a little. This means they are perfectly ripe. If they are too firm, you will find making your guacamole a bit challenging.
Use an inexpensive balsamic vinegar for the balsamic reduction, because you need to use more of it to allow it to concentrate and reduce. Leave your high-quality vinegar for salads and finishing dishes.
Homemade tortilla chips (as opposed to storebought) make it extra special, but they definitely are not a deal breaker.
Try some of my other delicious chip dip recipes:
Tools for making guacamole:
Wood cutting board – wood won’t dull your knives like plastic and if treated properly, has natural antimicrobial properties.
Good knife – Global is my favorite! They are worth the price, I promise. I am kind of obsessed with them and store them tucked away so no one else can use them. Including hubby. Hands off my good stuff!
Mixing Bowls– make sure to check out my article on Using the Right Mixing Bowl, you’d be surprised how many people aren’t!
Airtight Plastic Containers– Great for store any leftovers. Make sure you have a large enough set.
Guacamole with Balsamic Reduction
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados cubed and remove from skins
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers drained and minced
- 1 head roasted garlic
- 1 tablespoon light extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons cilantro minced
- 1 shallot minced
- Cooking Spray
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 tablespoons Balsamic Reduction Sauce
- Tortilla Chips for serving
Instructions
- In a small frying pan coated with cooking spray, saute minced shallots until soft and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Remove garlic pulp from skins and mash with a spoon.
- Combine minced roasted red peppers, sauteed shallots, avocado, cilantro, lime juice, and fine sea salt. Stir until well blended.
- Transfer to serving dish and drizzle with balsamic reduction sauce. Serve with freshly made tortilla chips.
- If you’ve tried this recipe, make sure to come back and let us know how it was!
What a delicious idea…I can almost taste that tang against the cool creaminess of the guac. Want some!
I have not tried a balsamic reduction yet, but can imagine the flavor, since I love balsamic vinegar and flavored vinegars so much. I am going to have to try this. It sounds divine!
I never would have thought to put balsamic in guacamole! Brilliant!
Oh wow – forget the chips and just give me a spoon! This sounds incredible!
I love avocados. I love Balsamic! You through the two together and BAM, mind blown! Love this idea!