Are you craving a silky, refreshing dish that captures the essence of authentic Latin cuisine? Look no further than crema de aguacate – a versatile avocado cream soup that balances simplicity with incredible flavor. In this guide, I’ll walk you through creating this delightful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
What is Crema de Aguacate?
Crema de aguacate is a smooth, velvety avocado soup popular throughout Latin America, especially in Colombia, Mexico, and Central American countries. This cold soup celebrates the creamy texture and subtle flavor of ripe avocados. Unlike guacamole, crema de aguacate offers a more refined consistency and often incorporates additional ingredients that enhance the natural richness of avocados.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
First of all, this crema de aguacate recipe requires minimal ingredients yet delivers maximum flavor. Additionally, it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as an elegant appetizer, a refreshing lunch, or even as part of a multi-course dinner. Furthermore, this recipe comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Crema de Aguacate
To create authentic crema de aguacate, you’ll need:
- 3 ripe Hass avocados
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free version)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: jalapeño for heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Avocados
First, cut your avocados in half and remove the pits. Then, scoop the flesh into a blender. After that, add the lime juice immediately to prevent browning. Consequently, you’ll preserve that beautiful green color that makes crema de aguacate so appealing.
2. Blend the Base
Next, add the broth, garlic, and cilantro to your blender. Subsequently, blend on high until completely smooth – usually about 30-45 seconds. Meanwhile, prepare your serving bowls or storage container if making ahead.
3. Add Creaminess
Now, add the heavy cream to the blender while it’s running on low speed. Therefore, the cream incorporates evenly without overmixing. Afterward, taste and adjust seasonings, adding salt and pepper as needed.
4. Chill and Serve
Finally, transfer your crema de aguacate to a container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. However, for the best flavor development, chill for 2 hours. Later, serve cold with your favorite garnishes.
Delicious Serving Suggestions
Transform your crema de aguacate into a memorable dish with these garnish ideas:
- Toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) for crunch
- A swirl of Mexican crema or sour cream
- Diced tomatoes and red onion
- Homemade croutons
- Crispy tortilla strips
- A dash of hot sauce for heat lovers
Tips for the Perfect Crema de Aguacate
- Choose the right avocados: Select avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren’t too soft.
- Balance is key: The lime juice not only prevents browning but also balances the richness of the avocado.
- Temperature matters: Always serve crema de aguacate well-chilled for the best taste experience.
- Make it ahead: This soup actually tastes better after flavors have had time to meld in the refrigerator.
- Texture control: For a thinner soup, simply add more broth. Conversely, for a thicker crema de aguacate, use less liquid.
Variations to Try
While traditional crema de aguacate is delicious on its own, these variations add exciting twists:
Tropical Crema de Aguacate
Add ¼ cup diced pineapple and a splash of coconut milk for a tropical flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with seafood.
Spicy Crema de Aguacate
Incorporate one seeded jalapeño or serrano pepper while blending for a version with a pleasant kick.
Herb-Infused Crema de Aguacate
Experiment with different herbs – mint, basil, or even dill can create interesting flavor combinations with the creamy avocado base.
Perfect Pairings
Crema de aguacate works beautifully as part of a larger meal. Consider serving it alongside our Sopa de Milpa Soup for a delightful soup duo that showcases traditional Latin American flavors. The earthy corn and vegetable notes in Sopa de Milpa complement the creamy richness of the avocado soup perfectly.
Health Benefits of Crema de Aguacate
Besides being delicious, crema de aguacate offers numerous health benefits:
- Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from avocados
- Provides essential vitamins including K, E, C, and B-vitamins
- Contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure
- Offers fiber that supports digestive health
Storing Your Crema de Aguacate
To keep your crema de aguacate fresh, store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent oxidation. Moreover, it will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the best flavor and color, enjoy it within 24 hours of preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make vegan crema de aguacate?
Absolutely! Simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
Why did my crema de aguacate turn brown?
Avocados oxidize when exposed to air. To prevent this, always add lime juice immediately and store with plastic wrap directly touching the soup’s surface.
Is crema de aguacate served hot or cold?
Traditionally, crema de aguacate is served cold as a refreshing soup, especially during warmer months.
Final Thoughts
Crema de aguacate represents the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. By following these steps, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish that showcases the natural beauty of avocados. Furthermore, this versatile recipe allows for countless adaptations to suit your personal taste preferences.
I hope you enjoy making this crema de aguacate as much as you’ll enjoy eating it! If you try this recipe, please share your experience in the comments below. Additionally, don’t forget to check out our Sopa de Milpa Soup recipe for another authentic Latin American favorite!
Description
Indulge in the creamy, refreshing flavors of Crema de Aguacate—a silky avocado soup that captures the essence of Latin cuisine. With just a few simple ingredients, this versatile dish can be enjoyed as a light appetizer, refreshing lunch, or elegant dinner starter, all in under 20 minutes.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Crema de Aguacate
InstructioStep-by-Step Instructionsns
-
Prepare Your Avocados
First, cut your avocados in half and remove the pits. Then, scoop the flesh into a blender. After that, add the lime juice immediately to prevent browning. Consequently, you’ll preserve that beautiful green color that makes crema de aguacate so appealing.
-
Blend the Base
Next, add the broth, garlic, and cilantro to your blender. Subsequently, blend on high until completely smooth – usually about 30-45 seconds. Meanwhile, prepare your serving bowls or storage container if making ahead.
-
Add Creaminess
Now, add the heavy cream to the blender while it’s running on low speed. Therefore, the cream incorporates evenly without overmixing. Afterward, taste and adjust seasonings, adding salt and pepper as needed.
-
Chill and Serve
Finally, transfer your crema de aguacate to a container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. However, for the best flavor development, chill for 2 hours. Later, serve cold with your favorite garnishes.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 180kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 16g25%
- Saturated Fat 6g30%
- Cholesterol 25mg9%
- Total Carbohydrate 8g3%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 3g6%
- Vitamin C 12 mg
- Calcium 40 mg
- Iron 0.6 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
