We Tried the Guacamole That Broke the Internet—and Our Test Kitchen Calls It ‘Perfection’

Guacamole is one of those timeless recipes where the basic components stay the same, no matter how far back you look. Sure, you can add a few flavor twists—garlic, sour cream, or a squeeze of lemon instead of lime—but at its core, the recipe remains unchanged.

So, how is it that one bowl of guacamole can taste totally different from another? One theory is that a surprising ingredient is making all the difference, adding freshness, body, and a subtle crunch, all while going completely undetected. What's the secret ingredient? Lettuce.

Why People Are Adding Lettuce to Guacamole

We’ve seen all sorts of ways to elevate classic guacamole—green onions, corn, mango—but lettuce? That’s a new one. However, according to the internet, it is “by far the best guacamole hack" out there.

Recently, creator kimmiegamez shared the unexpected way she served guacamole at her and her husband’s Mexican restaurant for 17 years—by mixing in shredded iceberg lettuce. The process is simple: mash your avocados, add your usual mix-ins, and then fold in finely chopped lettuce. In theory, the lettuce is chopped so finely and camouflaged so well by the avocados that no one will even know it's there.

According to the creator, the water in the lettuce helps keep the guacamole fresh and green, slowing down the browning process. Plus, it helps bulk up the guacamole so you get more dip for your dollar (because, as both restaurateurs and home cooks know, avocados are expensive).

Now, that all sounds great, but let’s play devil’s advocate for a moment. The lettuce shreds could disrupt the smooth and creamy texture guacamole is known for. Plus, it might leave guests feeling slighted, like they’re getting a sort of guacamole salad instead of the rich, satisfying dip they were expecting.

Naturally, the viral video sparked plenty of debate online. Some guacamole purists thought the concept was outrageous, calling it “an abomination” and “a crime.” One person even vowed to send it back if they found lettuce in their restaurant guac.

But, on the flip side, some people defended the idea, saying they actually prefer this style of guacamole. “I love when guacamole has shredded lettuce in it!” shared one user. “My Mexican tias would do this or add tomatillos.”

Naturally, we had to try the viral twist for ourselves. Here’s why we’re totally on board.

The Internet’s Best Hack for Guacamole

Our in-house recipe tester, Nicole McLaughlin, recreated the viral dish in our Test Kitchen—and gave it two thumbs up. “It was great,” she shared. “It’s an awesome hack for stretching the guacamole, as it literally doubles or triples the volume.”

The key, according to Nicole, is to use extra-crispy lettuce (which is why iceberg works best) and to chop and stir it in just before serving. This keeps the lettuce fresh and light, without turning soggy. It’s also a great way to save some calories if you’re trying to cut back—and to save on your grocery bill.

We can't fully back the claim that lettuce prevents guacamole from browning. While water can help slow oxidation, it usually requires a thin layer on top to protect the guac from air. A more reliable method for keeping guacamole green is to add an acid, like lime juice, and store it in an airtight container.

Still, the lettuce does add a unique crunch and freshness that makes this guacamole stand out.

“That is perfection!” Nicole concluded. “This is definitely a trick to pull out at your next party—trust me.”

So, have you ever tried lettuce in your guacamole? Whether you realize it or not, you very well may have. Regardless, we say give it a shot and see what you think of the internet’s latest—and potentially greatest—twist on the classic.

Read the original article on ALLRECIPES