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CRISPY BEEF CHICHARRONES WITH HOMEMADE GUACAMOLE


  • Author: Caroline Jones
  • Total Time: 50–60 minutes

Description

Crunchy, crave-worthy beef strips served over creamy guacamole—this nostalgic dish blends bold flavor, heart-healthy comfort, and modern ease.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Crispy Beef Chicharrones:

  • 1.5 lbs beef brisket or beef belly, cut into thin strips

  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 1 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)

  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil

  • Optional: 1 tsp cornstarch for extra crispiness

For the Homemade Guacamole:

  • 4 ripe Hass avocados

  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped

  • 2 medium Roma tomatoes, diced

  • 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped (seeded for milder flavor)

  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  • Juice of 2 limes

  • 1/2 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or canned)

  • Salt to taste

  • Optional: 1 garlic clove, minced

Suggested Substitutions:

  • For gluten-free: Ensure spices and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

  • For a lower-fat version: Use lean beef or swap beef with crispy baked tofu.

  • For vegan/vegetarian: Replace beef with crispy mushrooms or tempeh strips.


Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by trimming excess fat off your beef brisket or belly and slicing it into thin, uniform strips. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this is crucial for crispiness.

Step 2: Season the Meat

In a large mixing bowl, combine the beef strips with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive or avocado oil. Toss well to ensure every piece is evenly coated. Optionally sprinkle in a bit of cornstarch to enhance crisping during cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Chicharrones

Oven method: Preheat oven to 425°F. Lay the beef strips on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Bake for 25–35 minutes or until deeply golden and crispy, flipping once halfway through.
Air fryer method: Set air fryer to 400°F. Place strips in a single layer and cook for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway.
Traditional method: Deep-fry in hot oil (350°F) until golden, about 5–7 minutes, then drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Make the Guacamole

In a large bowl, mash the avocados with a fork until chunky-smooth. Add red onion, tomatoes, jalapeño, lime juice, corn, cilantro, salt, and optional garlic. Stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

In a molcajete (traditional stone mortar) or a rustic serving bowl, heap the guacamole high. Crown it generously with crispy beef chicharrones. Garnish with a few cilantro leaves and serve with tortilla chips or warm corn tortillas.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25–35 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg