Kitchen Tools Every Guac Lover Needs

If you’re a guacamole fan – and let’s face it, who isn’t – waiting days to order the majestic green dip at your favorite Tex-Mex joint sometimes just doesn’t cut it. You need to take matters into your own hands, but it requires the right kitchen tools for the job. After all, avocado, chile pepper, cilantro, onion, lime, and salt is a sacred combo, not to be trifled with.

These five suggested essential gadgets can help you create your own chef-grade guac.

Set the Stage

When it comes to preparing the green superfood, efficiency is key. That’s why the OXO 3-in-1 Avocado Tool is the answer to your pitting problems. This nifty little kitchen tool has a serrated blade to split the avocado skin, a round pitter to scoop out the pit, and lined plastic blades to create perfect, even slices. It takes the hassle right out of the first, and often messy, step to any guacamole.

Mix Things Up

A molcajete is the traditional Mexican stone method used for grinding your guacamole spices, like chiles, onion, salt, and garlic. It’s very effective in releasing flavor compounds — for which your taste buds and friends will thank you. After grinding the spices, you can also mash your avocado slices using this tool, leaving some chunks of green goodness to add texture.

Stay Smooth

If you prefer your guac to be a little smoother, or you can’t be bothered with mashing by hand, a mini food processor is the ideal kitchen tool for you. Take your avocados, spices, and cilantro for a spin. (Just be careful not to over-mix.)

Zest to Impress

All loyal guacamole groupies know that lime juice makes the mash. The tart liquid lends the zest that brings guac to life, and a proper handheld citrus juicer makes adding the finishing touch that much simpler. With an inverted press, the tool can extract maximum juice from a halved lime with minimum time and energy spent. Win-win.

Keep It Fresh

What’s the point of making top-notch guacamole if you don’t properly store it? The Guac-Lock storage container can solve that. If you’re saving leftover dip for tomorrow or taking it to a shindig, this tool will ensure your guac stays green. It locks in freshness and doubles as a serving dish.

Now that you have the kitchen tools you need to deliciously succeed, go forth and make guac!