GUACAMOLE CON HOJA DE AGUACATE – Earthy, Bright + Unexpected

Guacamole in a molcajete

Guacamole con Hoja de Aguacate Recipe – The Secret Leaf That Changes Everything

Intro

Guacamole is one of those things everyone thinks they’ve mastered — but this one’s got a secret.

Toasted avocado leaves (hoja de aguacate) add a subtle, earthy, anise-like note that takes it from backyard dip to chef’s-table level. It’s still creamy, bright, and full of lime and chile, but that extra layer of depth makes it unforgettable. Think of it as guacamole’s cool older cousin — simple, soulful, and just a little mysterious.

Why This Guacamole Works

🌿 Avocado Leaf Magic – Toasted hoja de aguacate adds smoky, herbal depth you don’t get anywhere else.
🔥 Balanced Heat – Serranos bring just the right kick without overpowering the avocados.
💚 Bright + Earthy – Tomatillos add tang while the avocado keeps it lush and creamy.
🪶 Molcajete Texture – Grinding by hand builds layers of flavor and keeps it rustic.

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Ingredients

YIELD: 2½ cups

• 0.65 g avocado leaves (about 2 leaves), toasted

• 180 g tomatillos, whole (≈ 3 medium)

• 275 g water (≈ 1 cup + 3 Tbsp)

• 65 g white onion, small dice (≈ ¼ cup)

• 15 g serrano chiles, minced (≈ 1 small chile)

• 15 g cilantro, chiffonade (≈ ¼ cup loosely packed)

• 30 g fresh lime juice (≈ 2 Tbsp)

• 7 g Diamond Crystal kosher salt (≈ 1 tsp + a pinch)

• 675 g avocado flesh (≈ 4 large avocados)

Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Tomatillos

Place tomatillos in a pot, cover with water, and simmer over medium heat until tender but not burst (≈ 10 – 12 min). Flip halfway through. Cool to room temp.

2️⃣ Grind the Avocado Leaves

In a molcajete, combine toasted avocado leaves with 2 Tbsp of tomatillo cooking liquid and a pinch of salt. Grind until smooth and aromatic.

3️⃣ Build the Base

Add serrano chile, onion, and some lime juice to the molcajete and grind into a paste. Add cilantro and grind again.

4️⃣ Add Tomatillos

Mash in the tomatillos until you reach your preferred texture — smooth or chunky.

5️⃣ Finish with Avocado

Add avocado and salt. Mash until creamy but still a bit rustic. Adjust seasoning with lime and salt to taste.

6️⃣ Serve

Top with extra onion and cilantro. Serve with tostadas or chips.

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Tips & Tricks

🌿 Trouble Finding Avocado Leaves? – Use dried hoja de aguacate (found in Mexican markets or online). Briefly toast in a dry pan until fragrant.
🧄 Molcajete vs Blender – Molcajete keeps it rustic and layered; a blender will give you something creamier but less dimensional.
🍋 Keep It Green – Add lime right before serving to slow oxidation.
🔥 Heat Control – Adjust the serrano to taste or swap for jalapeño if you want it milder.

Tools I Used

• Molcajete (or mortar & pestle)

• Medium saucepan

• Sharp knife + cutting board

Make It & Show Me

If you make this guacamole, tag @goatboyintl so I can see how you do yours (and whether you find the hoja de aguacate secret leaf 👀).