wnyc.org / 93.9fm / am 820

This is kind of a no-brainer, bacon, lettuce and tomato being such a beloved sandwich combo, especially when there’s a good smear of mayo.  This guacamole is in the same vein, except that the tangy, creamy mayo is replaced by avocado and lime.  Come to think of it, the avocado, along with a little cilantro, brings the lettuce-green to the picture as well.  It’s a perfect Mexican-American fusion of smoky, bright, creamy, fresh and satisfying.

If the tomato is really ripe and juicy, I’d cut it in half widthwise (across its “equator”), then gently squeeze out the jelly-like seeds from each half.  That’ll keep the guacamole from becoming runny.  And to ensure crisp bacon texture, don’t stir it in until just before serving.

Makes about 3 cups, serving 8 to 10 as a nibble

5 strips medium-thick bacon (full-flavored smoky bacon is great here)

3 medium-large (about 1 ¼ pounds) ripe avocados

½ medium white onion, chopped into ¼-inch pieces

2 or 3 canned chipotle chiles en adobo to taste, removed from the canning sauce, stemmed, slit open, seeds scraped out and finely chopped

1 medium-large round, ripe tomato, cored and chopped into ¼-inch pieces

¼ cup (loosely packed) coarsely chopped fresh cilantro (thick bottom stems cut off), plus a little extra for garnish

Salt

1 or 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

In a large (10-inch) skillet, cook the slices of bacon in a single layer over medium heat, turning them occasionally, until crispy and browned, about 10 minutes.  Drain on paper towels, then coarsely crumble.

Cut around each avocado, from stem to blossom end and back again, then twist the two halves apart.  Scoop out the pit and discard.  Scoop the flesh from the skin into a large bowl.  Using an old fashioned potato masher or a large fork or spoon, mash the avocados into a coarse puree.

Scoop the onion into a small strainer and rinse under cold water.  Shake off the excess water and transfer to the bowl, along with the chipotle chiles, tomatoes, cilantro (save out a little for garnish if you wish) and about 2/3 of the bacon.  Gently stir to combine all of the ingredients. Taste and season with salt, usually about ½ teaspoon, and enough lime juice to add a little sparkle.

Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface of the guacamole and refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.  Scoop the guacamole into a serving dish, sprinkle with the remaining bacon (and cilantro if you have it), and you’re ready to serve.