cinco de mayo

Today is Cinco de Mayo. It is a Mexican holiday that celebrates the Mexican victory over the French army at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Granted we have plenty of Mexicans living in the US, but I think we *celebrate* here in the US because we like to party. It's the same mentality as St. Patrick's Day. While there are plenty of Irish descendants celebrating on March 17th, I'd venture to say that most partiers are not Irish in any way, shape or form.

So on May 5th, my thoughts turn to my two favorite Mexican treats: tequila and guacamole. I could eat avocados every single day. Guacamole is probably my favorite way to prepare avocados, but I will eat them straight out of their skins with some salt and lime juice. Yum-o! And tequila... shots are always good, but a good añejo is a drink worth sipping.

In honor of Cinco de Mayo, I share a basic guacamole recipe. I always add extra garlic and cilantro, because I love it that way, but I realize most people don't. Mix and add to suit your own tastes.

Homemade Guacamole

2 ripe avocados

2 cloves fresh garlic, crushed

1/4 red onion, finely diced

4 Tablespoons finely chopped cilantro

juice of 1/2 lime

1/2 jalapeno, finely diced

coarse salt

pepper

Split avocados, discard the pits, and empty contents into a medium bowl. Add garlic, onion and cilantro. Mash with a fork until smooth but still chunky. Add lime juice, salt and pepper to taste. Serve with chips or use as a topping on grilled chicken or steak.

And in homage to the drink that when it's good, it's very, very good and when it's bad, it's very, very bad (it's not called to-kill-ya for nothin'), a little Pee Wee Herman.... Ole'!