(Note: this post was originally published on January 26, 2020, although some additional photos were added subsequently. The date above reflects migration to the new platform.)
I'm incredibly excited to introduce you to a very special and sentimental dish: the most awesome, interesting, complexly-flavored, tropical guacamole. This Hawaiian-inspired spin on guac incorporates tropical fruit for an unexpected pop of freshness and sweetness.
This dish holds a very special place in my heart since we have it every year on our anniversary. Dave and I eloped and got married on Kaua'i, Hawaii, years ago. Each year, exactly on our anniversary, we go back to the same spot on the same beach to celebrate.
Our anniversary celebration always includes three things. First, Mai Tais! Second, a big bag of tortilla chips and this Tropical Guacamole. Third, watching the sunset (see the photo below!). It's perfect and I hope we keep repeating our tradition for many more years to come.
I know the idea of tropical fruit in guac may seem strange, but I promise it's absolutely divine. The key is balancing the sweetness of the fruit with roasty, complex flavors. I always use a grilled red onion to bring some char, a dash of cumin for complexity, and cilantro for freshness. The end result is the perfect harmony of flavors, which will make you feel like you're sitting on a beach (even if it's just in your imagination).
In terms of fruits, you can use what you love. Some of my favorites are papaya and mango, since they're both incredible with avocado. I also like to use passionfruit and sometimes starfruit while on Kaua'i. Pineapple is a nice addition too, although use restraint since it's so acidic. Kumquat? Pomelo? Tropical fruit is so beautiful and diverse, so the options are really endless!
When we make this at home, I love to stuff it inside a tropical fruit! This works great with anything big; pineapple and pomelo are my favorite vessels, although a huge grapefruit or papaya can work too. It really adds some extra flair to the dish, and it's fun to scrape out additional fruit with your dipping items.
If you're new to hollowing-out fruit, use a really sharp knife and patience. A serrated grapefruit spoon is useful toward the end of the process.
Serve this up with all your favorite salty snacks! I love tortilla chips, especially interesting ones with flax or chia seeds. Plantain chips are also delicious, and some macadamia nuts on the side would be totally on-theme. Oh, or maybe taro chips!?! And Mai Tais are always a good idea.
Here's what you'll need for this recipe, as well as some thoughts, tips, and possible substitutions. If you make any substitutions, I'd love to hear about it in the comments section below.
This dish holds such a special place in our hearts and I'm so excited to be sharing it with you. It's fun, colorful, and unexpected. You can make a small batch for two, or an absurdly large batch for a party, using whatever tropical fruits you love best. Just remember to serve it with lots of salty tortilla chips or plantain chips for dipping!
As you enjoy this tropical riff on guac, imagine you're sitting on the beach. Are you sipping some Mai Tais? Maybe feeling the warm sun on your face, or watching a colorful sunset? Are there dolphins frolicking in the waves, or maybe a Hawaiian monk seal or sea turtle snoozing on the beach? This dish will help take you there, even if it's just in your imagination.
It makes me so happy to hear from you and see your creations! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think about this recipe. If you post a photo on Instagram, hashtag #TheRogueBrusselSprout and tag me (@TheRogueBrusselSprout) in the post text so that I'm sure to see it.
Watermelon Nachos with Avocado Sauce
A fresh and fun take on guacamole, this tropical version combines sweet, juicy tropical fruit with succulent grilled red onions. The perfect date night nibble!
Did you make this recipe? Did you make substitutions? How did you serve it? Any helpful tips? Please share your thoughts, since these insights are really useful to both me and to other readers.
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