19+ Chef John's Classic Guacamole Recipes Cook Up Something Special!
Published on: Mar 6, 2024
If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine, then you've probably tried guacamole at least once. This classic dish is a staple in many households and is a must-have for any party or gathering. However, making the perfect guacamole can be a daunting task, with many variations and recipes out there. That's why we turn to professional chefs like Chef John for his expertise and classic guacamole recipes that are sure to impress. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Chef John's go-to guacamole recipes and learn how to make the perfect guacamole every time.
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Beef Chuck Roast, Salt, Pepper, Butter
If you're a fan of hearty and comforting meals, then Chef John's Classic Beef Stroganoff is a must-try recipe. This dish has been a family favorite for generations, and for good reason. The tender beef, savory mushrooms, and creamy sauce all come together to create a dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your hunger.
Chef John's recipe stays true to the classic stroganoff flavors, but adds his own twist with the addition of Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. These ingredients give the dish a tangy kick that takes it to the next level. And let's not forget about the wide egg noodles, which are the perfect base for soaking up all of the delicious sauce.
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Chef John's Classic Macaroni Salad
Main Ingredients: Mayonnaise, White Vinegar, Dijon Mustard, Kosher Salt
Summer barbecues and picnics just wouldn't be complete without a big bowl of macaroni salad. And Chef John's Classic Macaroni Salad is a standout among the crowd. This recipe brings together all of the classic flavors of macaroni salad, including crunchy veggies, tangy mayo, and zesty mustard.
Chef John's secret ingredient? Pickle juice. Yes, you read that right. Adding a splash of pickle juice to the dressing gives this macaroni salad a unique and delicious flavor. And don't worry, if you're not a fan of pickles, you won't even taste it. It just adds a subtle tanginess that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
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Chef John's Classic Potato Pancakes
Main Ingredients: Russet Potatoes, Yellow Onion, Large Eggs, All Purpose
If you're looking for a new way to enjoy potatoes, look no further than Chef John's Classic Potato Pancakes. These crispy, golden-brown pancakes are a popular dish in many European countries, and for good reason. They're easy to make, hearty, and oh-so-delicious.
Chef John's recipe calls for grated potatoes, which gives the pancakes a nice texture and allows them to cook evenly. And for an extra kick of flavor, he adds in some chopped onion and garlic. Serve these up with some sour cream and applesauce for a truly classic experience.
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Classic Deviled Eggs Guacamole Deviled...
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, Mayonnaise, Plain Yogurt, Dijon Mustard
Deviled eggs are a staple at any potluck or party, but have you ever tried them with a guacamole twist? Chef John's Classic Deviled Eggs with Guacamole are a game-changer. The creamy, rich avocado adds a whole new level of flavor to these already delicious bites.
Chef John's recipe also includes some diced jalapenos for a bit of heat, and plenty of lime juice to give the guacamole a bright and tangy flavor. These deviled eggs are sure to be a hit at your next gathering, and they'll disappear in no time.
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Guacamole
Main Ingredients: Avocados, Plum Tomatoes, Jalapeno Pepper, Red Onion
No list of classic recipes would be complete without a guacamole recipe. This iconic dip has been a favorite for decades, and for good reason. It's creamy, flavorful, and goes well with just about anything.
Chef John's guacamole recipe is simple, but packs a punch of flavor. He uses fresh avocados, plenty of lime juice, and some diced tomatoes and onions for added texture. And of course, no guac is complete without some cilantro and a pinch of cumin. Serve it up with some tortilla chips and watch it disappear.
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National Spicy Guacamole Day | Spicy Guacamole
Main Ingredients: Haas Avocados, Lime, Kosher Salt, Ground Cumin
Did you know that there is a national holiday dedicated to guacamole? That's right, September 16th is National Spicy Guacamole Day. And what better way to celebrate than by making Chef John's Spicy Guacamole?
This recipe takes guacamole to the next level with the addition of spicy serrano peppers and some hot sauce. If you're a fan of heat, this guac is a must-try. And for those who prefer a milder version, simply leave out the serrano peppers and hot sauce for a classic guacamole.
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Classic Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Meatballs, Olive Oil, Beef Mince, Pork Mince, Ricotta
Meatballs are a classic comfort food that everyone loves. And Chef John's Classic Meatballs are no exception. These tender and flavorful meatballs are perfect for serving with pasta, in a sub sandwich, or on their own as an appetizer.
Chef John's recipe calls for a combination of ground beef and pork, which gives the meatballs a nice balance of flavors. And for an extra touch of Italian flavor, he adds in some grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. These meatballs will quickly become a staple in your household.
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Classic Lasagna
Main Ingredients: Lasagna Noodles, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Onions
No list of classic recipes would be complete without lasagna. This Italian dish has been a favorite for generations, and Chef John's Classic Lasagna is a standout among the crowd. Layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy ricotta cheese come together to create a dish that will make your taste buds sing.
Chef John's secret to a perfect lasagna? Letting it sit for a bit before serving. This allows the flavors to fully develop and the layers to set, resulting in a perfectly sliceable lasagna. Trust us, it's worth the wait.
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Classic Bruschetta
Main Ingredients: Italian Bread, Garlic, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Roma
Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never goes out of style. And Chef John's Classic Bruschetta is a must-try for any bruschetta lover. This recipe keeps things simple with just a few key ingredients, allowing the flavors to really shine.
Chef John's recipe calls for juicy ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and plenty of garlic. He also adds in a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of sweetness and acidity. Serve this up on some crusty bread for a delicious appetizer or snack.
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Classic Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Butter, Olive Oil, Onion, Celery Stalks, Salt, Black
Stuffing is a classic side dish that is a must-have at any holiday feast. And Chef John's Classic Stuffing is a recipe that you'll want to keep on hand for years to come. This recipe is full of flavor and has just the right amount of moisture to make it the perfect stuffing consistency.
Chef John's secret ingredient? Bacon. Yes, bacon. He adds in some crispy diced bacon for an extra punch of flavor. And for those who prefer a vegetarian option, simply leave out the bacon and this stuffing is still just as delicious.
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Classic Pancakes
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Butter, Sugar, Baking Powder, Salt
There's nothing quite like waking up on a lazy weekend morning to the smell of pancakes cooking on the griddle. And Chef John's Classic Pancakes are a recipe that you'll want to make every weekend. These fluffy and delicious pancakes are the perfect way to start your day.
Chef John's recipe calls for buttermilk, which gives the pancakes a nice tangy flavor and helps them to rise. And for an extra touch of sweetness, he adds in some vanilla extract. Serve these up with some butter and syrup for a classic breakfast experience.
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Waffles | Classic Waffles
Main Ingredients: Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt, Sugar, Eggs, Vanilla
Waffles are another classic breakfast food that everyone loves. And Chef John's Classic Waffles are a must-try for any waffle lover. These waffles are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and have just the right amount of sweetness.
Chef John's recipe calls for separating the eggs and whipping the egg whites before adding them to the batter. This extra step results in waffles that are light and airy. And for an extra touch of decadence, top them with some whipped cream and fresh berries.
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Classic Stuffed Peppers
Main Ingredients: Green Bell Peppers, Tomato Sauce, Ground Beef, Chopped
Stuffed peppers are another classic dish that has stood the test of time. And Chef John's Classic Stuffed Peppers are a recipe that you'll want to keep on hand for busy weeknights. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and a great way to use up any leftover rice or ground meat.
Chef John's recipe calls for a mixture of ground beef, rice, and seasonings, which is then stuffed into bell peppers and baked in a tomato sauce. The result is a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
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Classic Deviled Eggs
Main Ingredients: Hard Boiled Eggs, Relish, Dijon Mustard, Mayo, Salt
Deviled eggs are a classic appetizer that are always a hit at parties. And Chef John's Classic Deviled Eggs are a must-try for any deviled egg lover. This recipe stays true to the classic flavors, with a creamy filling that has just the right amount of tanginess.
Chef John's secret ingredient? A touch of vinegar. This gives the filling a nice tang and balances out the richness of the egg yolks. And for an extra touch of flavor, he adds in some Dijon mustard. These deviled eggs will be gone in no time, so be sure to make a double batch.
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Chef John's Classic Strawberry Shortcake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Self Rising Flour, White Sugar, Milk, Heavy
Strawberry shortcake is a classic summer dessert that never goes out of style. And Chef John's Classic Strawberry Shortcake is an easy and delicious way to enjoy this timeless treat. This recipe keeps things simple with just a few key ingredients, allowing the fresh strawberries to take center stage.
Chef John's recipe calls for making your own whipped cream, which takes this dessert to the next level. And for an extra touch of indulgence, he suggests serving it up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Trust us, you won't regret it.
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Classic Chicken Piccata
Main Ingredients: Garlic Cloves, Lemon, Chicken Cutlets, Salt, Freshly
Chicken piccata is a classic Italian dish that is full of flavor and perfect for a special occasion. And Chef John's Classic Chicken Piccata is a recipe that you'll want to keep in your back pocket for just such an occasion. This dish features tender chicken breasts in a lemony butter sauce with capers for an extra punch of flavor.
Chef John's recipe also includes some white wine, which gives the sauce a nice depth of flavor. And for a bit of freshness, he adds in some chopped parsley at the end. Serve this up with some pasta or mashed potatoes for a truly satisfying meal.
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Classic Bread Pudding
Main Ingredients: Nonstick Cooking Spray, Raisins, Bourbon Whiskey
Bread pudding is a classic dessert that is often overlooked. But Chef John's Classic Bread Pudding is a recipe that will make you wonder why you haven't been making it all along. This dish is rich, custardy, and full of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Chef John's recipe also calls for adding in some raisins or cranberries for an extra burst of flavor and texture. And for an indulgent touch, serve it up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
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Classic Apple Pie
Main Ingredients: Pie Crust, Granny Smith Apples, Lemon, Granulated
No list of classic recipes would be complete without apple pie. And Chef John's Classic Apple Pie is a must-try for any pie lover. This recipe features a flaky, buttery crust and a filling that is bursting with juicy apples and warm spices.
Chef John's secret to a perfect apple pie? Mixing in a bit of lemon juice with the apples. This helps to balance out the sweetness and adds a nice tang to the filling. Serve it up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly classic dessert experience.
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Classic Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
Main Ingredients: Unbaked Pie Crust, Rotisserie Chicken, Small Yellow
Pot pie is another classic comfort food that is perfect for chilly nights. And Chef John's Classic Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is a recipe that will warm your soul. This dish is loaded with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy sauce that will have you coming back for seconds.
Chef John's recipe calls for making your own pastry dough, which gives this pot pie a truly homemade feel. And for an extra touch of flavor, he adds in some Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. This pot pie is sure to become a family favorite.
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Classic Garlic-Baked Chicken Thighs
Main Ingredients: Nonstick Cooking Spray, Chicken Thighs, Salt, Black
When it comes to classic recipes, you can't go wrong with garlic-baked chicken. And Chef John's Classic Garlic-Baked Chicken Thighs are a recipe that you'll want to make again and again. This dish is simple, but full of flavor and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Chef John's recipe calls for marinating the chicken thighs in a mixture of garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil before baking them to perfection. The result is tender, juicy chicken with a crispy, flavorful skin. Serve it up with some roasted veggies and rice for a complete meal.
The Secret to Chef John's Classic Guacamole
Using Ripe Avocados
One of the main keys to making the perfect guacamole is using ripe avocados. Chef John recommends choosing avocados that are slightly soft to the touch, but not too mushy. This ensures that the avocados are at their peak flavor and texture, making for a creamy and delicious guacamole.
Adding a Pop of Citrus
Another secret to Chef John's guacamole is adding a pop of citrus. He recommends using freshly squeezed lime juice to not only add a bright tangy flavor but also to prevent the avocados from browning. This small addition makes a big difference in the overall taste and appearance of the guacamole.
Customizing the Heat Level
Guacamole can be a polarizing dish when it comes to heat. Some prefer it mild, while others like it hot. Chef John's classic guacamole recipe allows for customization of the heat level by adding or omitting jalapenos. This way, you can cater to everyone's taste buds and ensure everyone enjoys their guacamole.
Don't Forget the Salt
Salt may seem like a small ingredient, but it plays a crucial role in bringing out the flavors in guacamole. Chef John recommends using kosher salt for its coarse texture, which helps distribute the salt evenly throughout the dish. Don't be afraid to taste and add more salt if needed, as it can make all the difference in the final product.
The Perfect Balance of Ingredients
One of the reasons why Chef John's guacamole recipes are so popular is because of the perfect balance of ingredients. From the creamy avocados to the tangy lime juice and spicy jalapenos, every ingredient is carefully chosen to create a harmonious and flavorful guacamole.
In conclusion, Chef John's classic guacamole recipes are a must-try for any guacamole lover. By following his tips and techniques, you can create the perfect guacamole every time. So next time you're in the mood for some delicious and authentic guacamole, turn to Chef John's recipes for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.