Guacamole is one of the most famous Mexican salsas, but who invented it and what are its origins? Keep reading to discover the answers.
Who Invented Guacamole?
It’s not possible to say with certainty who invented guacamole. However, we know that we owe this delicious spread to the indigenous people of Mexico.
In fact, the word “guacamole” itself comes from nahuatl, the language spoken by the Aztecs. The meaning of ahuacamolli in nahuatl is pretty straightforward: it combines ahucatl (avocado) and mulli (sauce). So, guacamole essentially means “avocado sauce” in nahuatl.
While the origins of guacamole are ancient, the recipe has evolved over time. The guacamole that the Aztecs consumed called for just avocado, tomato, and chili peppers. After the arrival of the Spanish, ingredients such as onion, garlic, salt, and lime juice were added to the recipe, creating the guacamole the world knows and loves today.
“Green Gold”
Guacamole went on to become one of Mexico’s greatest culinary hits. Fresh, delicious, and easy to prepare, this spread is both unmistakably Mexican and highly adaptable, and the world has embraced it enthusiastically.
The success of guacamole fuels a whole sector of Mexican agriculture. For example, Mexican avocados account for 46% of the total avocado exports worldwide. It’s no wonder that some in Mexico use the term “green gold” to refer to avocados!
More Facts About Mexican Food
We love all the curious facts that surround authentic Mexican food. If you are hungry for more stories, then check out these previous posts:
- Which Mexican food are you? Take the test and find out!
- Some fun facts about jalapenos
- Chicken and Mexican food: 5 curious facts
- Mexican Carne Asada is a way of life
- The amazing stories behind the names of Mexican food
- Mesquite, a symbol of Mexican culture
Enjoy Authentic Mexican Food at El Pollo Norteño
If what you want is Authentic Mexican food in Southern California, El Pollo Norteño is the place to go.
Visit today any of our four locations (Anaheim, Santa Ana, and Garden Grove), order online, get in touch through Facebook, or call 866-MI-POLLO to enjoy our authentic Mexican dishes: amazing chicken grilled to perfection over real Mesquite charcoal, caldo de pollo, flan, carnitas, carne asada, and more!