It’s hard to imagine a Super Bowl party without a giant bowl of guacamole and crispy tortilla chips. But how did this Mexican classic become a game-day essential in the United States?
It all started with a clever marketing campaign. After the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) was signed in the 1990s, avocado growers in Mexico saw an opportunity to introduce their beloved guacamole to the U.S. market. By promoting it as the perfect snack for football games, they successfully turned the creamy green dip into a Super Bowl tradition.
By 2008, Mexico became the largest avocado supplier to the U.S., and by 2016, avocado exports surpassed oil revenues and remittances as Mexico’s top source of foreign income.
How Much Guacamole Is Eaten During the Super Bowl?
Fun Fact: More than 77 million pounds (35,000 tons) of guacamole are consumed every Super Bowl Sunday! That’s enough to fill a football field over a foot deep in delicious guacamole.
The only event that surpasses the Super Bowl in avocado consumption is Cinco de Mayo, another major celebration of Mexican culture in the U.S.
What Is Guacamole, and Why Is It So Popular?
In Mexico, guacamole is considered a salsa, often paired with tacos, tostadas, and grilled meats. However, in the United States, it’s served primarily as a dip with tortilla chips.
The traditional Mexican guacamole recipe consists of:
- Avocados – The star ingredient, typically Hass or Fuerte avocados.
- Onion & garlic – For a rich, savory flavor.
- Chili pepper – Usually serrano or jalapeño, for a spicy kick.
- Cilantro – Adds a fresh, herbal taste.
- Lime juice – Prevents oxidation and adds acidity.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors.
Controversial Guacamole Ingredients
There’s ongoing debate about whether or not to add tomatoes to guacamole. Some argue that diced tomatoes (or tomatillos) enhance the texture, while others believe they dilute the avocado flavor.
Other popular guacamole variations include:
- Fruity guacamole: Mixed with peaches, pomegranate seeds, or grapes.
- Herb-infused guacamole: Featuring mint, basil, or tarragon.
- Crunchy guacamole: Topped with grasshoppers (chapulines), jumiles, or chicatanas—edible insects commonly used in Mexican cuisine.
Regardless of personal preference, one thing is certain: Guacamole tastes best when made fresh and served in a traditional molcajete (stone mortar and pestle).
Easy Homemade Guacamole Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 8)
- 5 ripe avocados
- ½ onion (finely chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 serrano or jalapeño pepper (diced)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Chop and prepare all ingredients (onion, garlic, chili, and cilantro).
- Scoop the avocado flesh into a molcajete or mixing bowl.
- Add lime juice to prevent oxidation and keep the avocado green.
- Mash the avocado with a fork or pestle until you reach your desired texture.
- Mix in the chopped ingredients and season with salt to taste.
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips.
Final Thoughts: Guacamole, the Super Bowl MVP
Whether you’re watching the game for the football, the halftime show, or the commercials, one thing is certain—guacamole is here to stay.
Pro Tip: To keep guacamole from turning brown, store it in an airtight container and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before refrigerating.
So, grab some ripe avocados, whip up this easy guacamole recipe, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate Super Bowl snack!
What’s your favorite way to make guacamole? Share your best recipe in the comments!
