By Bretton Love
If you spend any time brunching in Harlem, you’ve definitely seen the ubiquitous avocado toast on nearly every menu.
This healthy, delicious dish has become a staple in recent years, loved for its bright flavors and versatility. But we Harlemites know how to put our spin on popular foods and give them an extra kick of soul and zest.
We’re breaking down how to make avocado toast at home with a distinctly Harlem style. This elevated version is sure to become your new go-to brunch recipe to impress guests or simply treat yourself. It’s packed with bold seasonings and fresh toppings that’ll have your tastebuds wanting more.
The Avocado Base
Start with perfectly ripe avocados that give just a little when gently squeezed. Slice them in half, remove the pit, and scoop the creamy flesh into a bowl.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice to keep it green and vibrant.
Here’s where we kick things up a notch – mash the avocado with a fork, leaving some larger chunks for texture.
But don’t stop there! Sprinkle in some zesty spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne for an extra punch of flavor. You can also mince in some fresh garlic if you want to bring the heat.
The Bread
While any bread works, we recommend going with a hearty variety like a whole grain or seeded loaf. Toast it until it’s nice and crispy to provide the perfect base for all those tasty toppings.
Harlem-Inspired Toppings
This is where you can get creative and load up your avocado toast with fresh, flavorful mix-ins inspired by the diverse culinary influences of Harlem:
- Pico de gallo or fresh salsa
- Sliced jalapeños
- Crumbled queso fresco or feta
- Crispy chorizo or turkey bacon pieces
- Sliced radish or red onion
- Chopped cilantro
- A dollop of fresh guacamole
- Sunny-side up egg
You can also switch up the spice blend to incorporate jerk seasoning, cajun spices or even a little curry powder for an unexpected kick.
The possibilities are endless to put your own spin on this brunch classic.
Don’t be afraid to blend different cultural flavors and ingredients – that’s what makes Harlem cuisine so vibrant and delicious.
No matter what toppings you choose, be sure to snap a pic before digging in. This colorful, zesty avocado toast is worthy of the ‘gram and represents Harlem‘s incredible food scene. Your tastebuds (and followers) will thank you!
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