Poor Man’s Butter (Sort of Chunky Guacamole)

I’ll never forget my first taste of what we affectionately called “Poor Man’s Butter.” It was at a summer barbeque in the scorching Texas heat, hosted by a dear friend whose family had deep roots in El Paso. The aroma of mesquite mingled with something bright, tangy, and utterly irresistible. I remember hovering near the bowl, shamelessly scooping up bite after bite with crispy tortilla chips, convinced I’d discovered the culinary secret of the century. The freshness of the tomatoes, the creaminess of the avocado, and that unexpected kick of jalapeño – it was a symphony of flavors that danced on my tongue. Now, years later, it’s a staple in my own kitchen, a reminder of laughter, sunshine, and good company.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (includes chilling time)
• Servings: 8-10
• Yield: About 6 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegan, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 4 tomatoes, finely diced
• 4 avocados, peeled and finely diced
• 2 bunches green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 jalapeño peppers, finely diced
• 1 (4 1/2 ounce) can chopped mild green chilies
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons salt
• 2-3 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1⁄3 cup red wine vinegar
• Corn tortilla chips, for serving

Equipment Needed

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Measuring Spoons and Cups

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely diced tomatoes, avocados, green onions, and jalapeño peppers.
2. Add the can of chopped mild green chilies to the bowl.
3. Sprinkle salt over the mixture.
4. Gently fold the ingredients together, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Be careful not to mash the avocados too much; we want a somewhat chunky texture.
5. Add the minced fresh cilantro, vegetable oil, and red wine vinegar to the bowl.
6. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, making sure the oil and vinegar are thoroughly incorporated.
7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. After chilling, mix the “Poor Man’s Butter” again.
9. Taste and add a bit more red wine vinegar if desired, adjusting to your personal preference. Remember that the flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
10. Serve immediately with corn tortilla chips.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For the best flavor, use ripe but firm avocados. Avoid avocados that are too soft, as they will turn mushy when mixed.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, consider using serrano peppers instead of jalapeños, or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. Remember to remove the seeds and membranes for a milder heat.
• To prevent the avocados from browning, you can add a squeeze of lime juice or lemon juice to the mixture. The acidity helps to slow down oxidation.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with other herbs, such as fresh parsley or oregano.
• Make this ahead of time! The flavors meld beautifully as it sits. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this delightful “Poor Man’s Butter” chilled with your favorite corn tortilla chips as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. It’s also fantastic as a topping for grilled meats, fish tacos, or even scrambled eggs.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The avocados may brown slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious. To minimize browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the “Poor Man’s Butter” before sealing the container. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the avocados will change upon thawing.

Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	216 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	165 g	76%
Total Fat	18.4 g	28%
Saturated Fat	2.6 g	13%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	639.6 mg	26%
Total Carbohydrate	14.2 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	8.6 g	34%
Sugars	3.6 g	N/A
Protein	3.3 g	6%

Variations & Substitutions

• Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Smoked Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a smoky flavor profile. You could also use smoked salt.
• Different Chilies: Experiment with different types of chilies, such as poblano peppers or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, for unique flavor variations.
• Lime Juice: Substitute lime juice for red wine vinegar.
• Add Corn: Mix in some grilled corn for added texture and sweetness.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this up to 24 hours in advance. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Q: How do I prevent the avocados from browning?
A: To minimize browning, add a squeeze of lime juice or lemon juice to the mixture. The acidity helps to slow down oxidation. Also, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the “Poor Man’s Butter” before sealing the container.

Q: Can I use frozen avocados?
A: While you can use frozen avocados, the texture may be slightly different. Frozen avocados tend to be softer and mushier than fresh avocados, which can affect the overall consistency of the dish.

Q: What can I serve this with besides tortilla chips?
A: This is also fantastic as a topping for grilled meats, fish tacos, salads, or even scrambled eggs. It’s a versatile condiment that can add a burst of flavor to many dishes.

Q: How long will this last in the refrigerator?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, the avocados may brown slightly over time.

Final Thoughts

I encourage you to give this “Poor Man’s Butter” recipe a try. It’s a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbeque, a casual get-together, or simply looking for a delicious snack, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations and substitutions to create your own unique version. And, of course, I’d love to hear your feedback and any creative twists you come up with. Serve alongside some grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal. Enjoy!