Beer-Battered Fried Avocado Wedges with Mango Salsa

Don’t you love when a particular gift keeps on giving? It is magical how something so small can bring so much happiness. Living in the foodie world, is a gift amongst itself. It brings much joy to make something and share with others. The moment that bite is taken, the sparkle brought into their eyes, the smile on their face and the gentle exclamation they share about how tasty it is. This just lights up my heart.

With the iconic Oprah Show bidding farewell last week, it was bittersweet. After 25 years on the air bringing much inspiration to folks around the world, Oprah decided to end on a high note and begin a new journey. With her new OWN network being launched and I am positive that we, as loyal viewers now have a new platform to engage and participate in the next step of her journey. I believe her show was a gift to all of her viewers.  Thank you Oprah for such an amazing gift.

While shopping yesterday at Anthropologie, I came across a magnificent little inspirational book titled – “Words That Matter”. It is a powerful little book of life lessons and ever day truths that guide and inspire. It is a book to keep nearby, so you can be inspired to find new ways to think about life each time you read it. It is published by the editors of O, The Oprah Magazine.

Thought I would share few quotes that resonate with me about giving from the book:

“The habit of giving only enhances the desire to give.” – Walt Whitman

“We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” – Marlilynne Robinson

“I know for sure that when you shift your paradigm to what you can do for others, you begin to celebrate you own evolution and trigger a bounty of blessings.” – Oprah

“How we treasure (and admire) the people who acknowledge us! A simple gesture goes such a long way.” – Julie Morgenstern

“If you knew what I know about the power of giving, you would not let a single meal pass without sharing it in some way. “ – Buddha

The gift from the California Avocado Commission along with Foodbuzz is one of those foodie gifts that keep on giving. While pursuing the website, I clicked on the recipe section and saw Beer Battered Avocados. My eyes lit up. Typically, I don’t do much frying in our household, primarily to keep us healthy, however it is quite a treat every now and then.

To add a bit of creativity, flair and flavor I whipped up a bit of spicy mango salsa. The combination of the deep fried crunchy outside and creamy green avocado inside, with the side of spicy mango salsa, created a flavor explosion.

In honor of Memorial Day, I want to thank all the men and women who have given their lives, time and dedication to keeping our wonderful country safe.

Beer- Battered Fried Avocado Wedges with Mango Salsa

1 C. Beer
1 C. Flour
2 t. Paprika
2 Garlic cloves, minced fine
½ t. Salt
8 grinds fresh ground pepper
Juice of one lemon

Vegetable oil for frying

To make the beer batter, whisk together beer, flour, paprika, salt, pepper and garlic. Let sit for a couple hours.

To make per order. Peel and cut half avocado into 6 wedges. Sprinkle with lemon juice. Dredge each wedge in the beer batter. Deep fry in 350 degree oil until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Drain well and season with salt. Serve with mango salsa.

Note: you can double or triple the batter recipe based on how many you plan to serve. This recipe should process 4 to 5 avocados.

Mango Salsa

1 large mango, cut into small cubes
½ Red onion, finely diced
1 Jalapeno, seeded and diced fine
3 T. Cilantro leaves, finely chopped
1 T. Lime juice, fresh
1 t. Honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Put all of the ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Let sit at least 30 minutes to help the flavors develop.