- In a large bowl, gently mash the avocado until slightly chunky, ensuring it doesn't become a smooth puree.
- Combine chopped onion, green chilies, tomatoes, cilantro, lemon juice, and salt with the mashed avocado. Mix well. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving as a dip or spread.
- Calories:160 kcal25%
- Energy:669 kJ22%
- Protein:2 g28%
- Carbohydrates:9 mg40%
- Sugar:2 mg8%
- Salt:10 g25%
- Fat:15 g20%
Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh
Avocado Dip Recipe – Indian-Style Guacamole with Lemon & Chili
Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick, healthy, and seriously delicious dip. And let me tell you, this Indian-style avocado dip is a total game-changer. It’s got all the creaminess of guacamole, but with a vibrant, tangy twist thanks to lemon juice and a little kick from green chilies. I first made this when I was craving something different with my evening chai and it’s been a staple ever since!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This avocado dip is unbelievably easy to make – seriously, it takes just 10 minutes! It’s perfect for a quick snack, a party appetizer, or even as a spread for sandwiches and wraps. Plus, it’s packed with healthy fats and fresh flavors. It’s a fantastic way to add a little something special to your everyday meals.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this amazing dip:
- 3 medium avocados
- 1 onion
- 2 green chilies
- 1 tomato
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (about 30ml)
- 1.5 tablespoons coriander leaves (about 8-10 leaves)
- Salt to taste
Ingredient Notes
Let’s talk about getting the most out of each ingredient. A few little tips can make all the difference!
Avocados: Choosing the Right Ripeness
This is key! You want avocados that yield to gentle pressure, but aren’t mushy. Think of it like a gentle hug – they should give a little. If they’re rock hard, they need a few more days to ripen. You can speed things up by placing them in a paper bag with a banana or apple.
Onions & Green Chilies: Adjusting the Spice Level
I like to use red onions for a little extra bite, but white onions work just fine too. As for the green chilies, feel free to adjust the quantity based on your spice preference. Remove the seeds for a milder dip, or leave them in for a fiery kick!
Coriander Leaves: Freshness is Key
Fresh coriander (cilantro) is a must for that authentic Indian flavor. Dried coriander just won’t cut it. Make sure the leaves are bright green and fragrant.
Lemon Juice: The Brightness Factor
Lemon juice not only adds a lovely tang but also helps prevent the avocado from browning. Don’t skimp on it!
Step-By-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s so simple, you’ll be surprised.
- First, cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh into a large bowl.
- Gently mash the avocado pulp with a fork until slightly chunky. We don’t want a smooth puree – a little texture is nice!
- Now, finely chop the onion, green chilies, and tomato. Add them to the bowl with the mashed avocado.
- Throw in the chopped coriander leaves and pour in the lemon juice.
- Add salt to taste and give everything a good mix.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Expert Tips
Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:
- Don’t over-mash the avocado! A little chunkiness is perfect.
- Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- For a smoother dip, you can use a potato masher instead of a fork.
- A splash of water can help adjust the consistency if it’s too thick.
Variations
This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ways to customize it:
Spice Level Adjustments
My friend, Priya, loves to add a pinch of red chili powder for an extra boost of heat. You could also use a hotter variety of green chili.
Vegan Adaptation
This recipe is naturally vegan! No changes needed.
Festival Adaptations (e.g., serving with Diwali snacks)
During Diwali, I love serving this dip with crispy papdis or mathris. It’s a delicious and unexpected pairing!
Serving Suggestions
This avocado dip is amazing with so many things!
- Tortilla chips
- Crudités (carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips)
- Naan bread or roti
- As a spread for sandwiches and wraps
- With grilled chicken or fish
Storage Instructions
Leftover dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the dip before sealing the container. A squeeze of extra lemon juice on top also helps!
FAQs
Let’s answer some common questions:
How ripe should the avocados be for this dip?
They should yield to gentle pressure, like a soft hug. Not too hard, not too mushy!
Can I make this dip ahead of time? If so, how do I prevent browning?
Yes, you can make it a few hours ahead. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface and add a squeeze of lemon juice.
What can I serve this avocado dip with, besides chips or crackers?
So many things! Try it with naan, roti, grilled meats, or as a sandwich spread.
Is it possible to adjust the heat level of this dip?
Absolutely! Use fewer green chilies, remove the seeds, or add a pinch of red chili powder for extra heat.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice? Will it affect the taste?
You can, but it will slightly alter the flavor. Lime juice is a bit more floral, while lemon juice is brighter and more acidic. Both work, but I prefer lemon for this recipe.
Enjoy! I really hope you give this Indian-style avocado dip a try. Let me know what you think in the comments below!