Ripe or Unripe?
Avocados are one of those fruit that confuse many people. It’s easy to tell when some fruits, like apples and bananas, are ripe. But when it comes to avocados, it isn’t always so easy to tell when they are ready to be enjoyed. Most people turn to the grocery store to get their avocados, but many are wondering if they ripen on the tree too.
Avocados, scientifically known as Persea americana, are a member of the Lauraceae family. The fruit grows in countries like Mexico, where it is their national fruit, as well as California, New Zealand and South Africa. But regardless of the region, avocados of all shapes, sizes and color can be found.
The answer to the question is yes, avocados do in fact ripen on the tree. But it’s important to understand the process for this to occur. When the avocado is fully ripe, its skin turns dark green, or even black, and the flesh becomes creamy. Harvesting from the tree before this happens makes it difficult to know when it will be ready to eat.
The Ripening Process
Though an avocado may not look ripe when it’s still on the tree, it doesn’t mean it isn’t. The process for the avocado to become edible can take up to 12 weeks. Moreover, the ripening process doesn’t start until the avocado is picked from the tree. If a grower picks the fruit when it’s still immature and green, they shouldn’t expect it to ripen in the way it would have if left to naturally ripen on the tree.
Depending on the variety of the fruit, the ripening process can take anywhere between 4 weeks to 12 weeks. This happens because avocados age differently depending on their variety. For example, a Hass avocado on the tree can take 6-8 weeks to fully ripen, while a Fuerte may take an additional 4 weeks.
Harvesting and Storage
To make sure an avocado is perfectly ripe before harvesting, expert advice suggests to wait until the collar of the fruit gives slightly when squeezed. The color of the skin often changes from green to purple or black when the fruit is ripe, but it isn’t necessarily a foolproof indicator of ripeness.
Different types of avocados respond differently to storage. For example, the Hass variety gets nearly all of its ripening done on the tree, so it can only be kept for a few days in the refrigerator. On the other hand, some varieties, like Fuerte or Gwen, will ripen off the tree and can be stored in the fridge for weeks.
Determining Ripeness
When an avocado is ‘just right’ enough, it should be stored on the counter at room temperature until it’s ready to be consumed. If a ripened avocado is placed in the fridge, it can help the fruit keep its ripeness a little longer. Eating a fully ripened avocado is not only easy, it’s a lot tastier. Knowing the right ripeness will help to maximize the flavor and nutritional benefits of the fruit as well.
The Benefits
Avocados are packed with many health benefits. According to the AHA, a half of an avocado contains more than 20 vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, including cholesterol-lowering monounsaturated fats, magnesium, potassium, and fiber. Studies have also found that avocados are rich in antioxidants like lutein, a carotenoid that helps protect the eyes from age-related macular degeneration.
Avocados have also been linked to less inflammation and a lower risk of heart disease and stroke. Plus, their high fiber content aids with digestion and helps the body feel fuller for longer.
Harvesting Techniques
Most commercial avocado producers, though, don’t rely on the visual indicators to determine when to pick their fruit. Instead, they use a hand-held device that measures the resistance of the skin and can offer more reliable data about the ripeness of the fruit. The device works by sending a small electrical current through the skin of the avocado, allowing the grower to know when it’s time to pick the fruit.
In the Kitchen
Avocado is typically used as a main ingredient in salads and sauces, especially in cooking dishes from Central and South America. But it can also be a great addition to many other recipes. The fruit can be used in dips, smoothies and even baked goods. Avocado adds flavor and moisture to almost any dish, making it a great ingredient to add to a healthy diet.
Preserving Avocados
One of the things many people often worry about is what to do with a ripened avocado. Since the fruit does ripe quickly, it’s important to know how to properly store it for later use. The best way is to place the avocado in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to a week.
Avocado Oil
Avocado oil is made from the flesh of the avocado and is widely used in cooking, baking and even in beauty products. It’s widely available at most grocery stores. Avocado oil is popular for its high smoke point, which makes it perfect for high-heat cooking. It is also highly nutritious, packed with healthy fats and antioxidants.
Healthy and Delicious
Avocados are truly a versatile and delicious fruit. They can be enjoyed fresh, or used in a number of dishes and recipes. Whether it’s the delicious taste or the health benefits, it’s easy to see why avocados popularity has been increasing in recent years. Whether you pick it off the tree or pick it up at the grocery store, make sure your avocado is ripened to perfection and enjoy!
