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Botanical name
Persea americana
Other Names
Alligator pear
Vitamins and Minerals
- Vitamin B6
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
- Beta-carotene
- Copper
- Riboflavin
- Niacin
- Folate
- Pantothenic acid
- Maganese
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Thiamin
- Iron
- Zeaxanthin
- Lutein
- Omega-3 fatty acids.
Health Benefits
- Contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fat.
- Nutrient rich
- Avocados contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two phytochemicals that are especially concentrated in the tissues in the eyes, where they provide antioxidant protection to help minimize damage.
Description
The fruit of the plant is botanically a large berry containing a single large seed. Since avocados are a popular fruit and a valuable crop, they are cultivated in warm climates throughout the world.
Background and History
The avocado originated in south-central Mexico sometime between 7,000 and 5,000 B.C. Archaeologists in Peru have found domesticated avocado seeds buried with Incan mummies dating back to 750 B.C. There is evidence that avocados were cultivated in Mexico as early as 500 B.C.
Flavor Profile
The avocado is not sweet and has a distinct and subtle flavor with a creamy texture.
Storage and Buying
- Avocados mature on the tree, but do not begin to ripen until they are picked.
- A ripe avocado yields slightly to gentle pressure when held in the palm of the hand and squeezed. Too much yield and the avocado is most likely overripe.
- When buying avocados, if you do not plan on using them for several days, try purchasing hard avocados that have not ripened yet and store them in the refrigerator up until a couple of days before you plan on using them. Then bring them up to room temperature for them to ripen.
Quick Tip
Add lemon or lime juice to avocado after peeling to help prevent browning.
Popular Uses
- Avocado oil is mostly used for salads and dips. It has a high smoke point, but is generally not used for cooking applications such as frying due to the fact that it is expensive.
- The avocado is common in vegetarian cuisine as a substitute for meats in sandwiches and salads because of its high fat content.
- The main ingredient in the famous Mexican dish guacamole.
- As a mayonnaise substitute.
- Avocado toast