Are you a fan of avocados and eat them all the time, but do you really know everything about this exotic fruit? Learn how to choose, ripen, prepare, dress, and store it to fully enjoy it, no matter the season. In this article, we'll tell you everything about the avocado 101 guide.
Did you know avocados are native to Mexico?
First recognized for their exceptional nutritional values and deliciously creamy texture, avocados are also in season year-round in their native country. Thanks to an ideal climate, these avocado trees are the only ones in the world to naturally bloom four times a year. We'll explain all the tips and tricks for enjoying them.
How to choose the perfect avocado
Choosing the perfect fruit depends on when you want to consume it. If the avocado's skin is too green, it will be ripe in about a week. If the skin is dark but firm to the touch, it's not quite ripe and will need two more days. Finally, if the skin is dark and yields to slight pressure, then it's perfect. We'll give you all the tips for selecting the best avocado.
How to ripen an avocado
Do you have a recipe planned for the week but your avocado is as hard as its pit? We have the solution for you: place the avocado in a paper bag with a banana for four days, and check its status daily. If the avocado is slightly soft to the touch, it's ready to be cooked. If your avocado ripens too early in the week, slow down its ripening process by storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. We'll detail all the steps to ripen your avocado.
How to prepare an avocado
First, cut the avocado in half using a chef's knife by slicing the fruit lengthwise, and open it in two. Insert the blade into the pit, twist it gently, and it's done. With a tablespoon, gently remove the skin from the flesh. Then, you're the boss: sliced, cubed, or mashed with a fork and a few drops of lemon juice, the avocado is delicious in all its forms. We'll give you all the techniques for preparing your avocado.
How to dress an avocado
The avocado is an excellent source of good fats, incredibly versatile, and easy to incorporate into tasty, sweet, or spicy dishes. It can be cooked, fried, grilled, or eaten raw. It can replace butter in desserts, such as a recipe for moist brownies, and mayonnaise in sandwiches and wraps. In the morning or after a workout, it's your best ally in a vitamin-packed smoothie. For a quick and nourishing snack, simply cut an avocado in half and add your favorite seasoning to hold you over until the next meal. For pasta and salads, its creamy texture is an ideal base for healthy sauces and dips. Finally, during BBQ season, try grilling it for 3 to 5 minutes with a little olive oil. We'll show you all the delicious ways to dress your avocado.
How to store an avocado
Have half an avocado left? Slow down its oxidation with a few drops of lemon juice or avocado oil and store it in the refrigerator for 3 days, wrapped in plastic wrap. Frozen avocado cubes can be stored for up to 6 months. We'll give you all the tips for properly storing your avocado.
Conclusion
In short, the avocado is a fruit with multiple virtues that can be used in various ways. It's easy to incorporate into our diets and is an excellent health ally. With our avocado 101 guide, you're now ready to enjoy it to the fullest, no matter the season!
