Avocado has to be one of the most popular – and particularly healthy fruits – in the kitchen; its uses are endless. Unfortunately, using an avocado means leaving it until the last minute because once cut, the surface of the fruit quickly turns brown.
There are several solutions to this problem. Popular methods are to leave the pit (the large stone in the centre) in; cover with lemon juice; place the skinless avocado in water; place in an airtight container with a cut onion.
These methods will slow down the browning but as most affect either the flavour or texture are not ideal.
Why Does an Avocado Turn Brown?
Avocados have an enzyme called’polyphenol oxidase‘under the skin. Once the enzyme in the cut avocado comes into contact with oxygen in the air, the avocados turn brown.
– What You Need
You will need:
- A large pan of boiling water
- An accurate timer
- A slotted spoon
- A bowl of cold water and ice cubes
- Ripe avocados as needed
– Place in a Pan of Boiling Water
Drop a ripe avocado into a pan of rapidly boiling water.
Leave the avocado in the water for exactly 10 seconds, no more or the avocado will start to cook, no less, the enzyme is not destroyed.
– Drop Immediately into Iced Water
At exactly 10 seconds, remove the avocado into the bowl of ice-cold water and ice cubes with a slotted spoon, this will stop the avocado from continuing to cook.
Leave to cool completely then remove from the water and dry with a tea towel.’
‘Do one avocado at a time and repeat. The water must be boiling each time.
– Your Avocado is Ready to Use or Keep.
Your avocados are now ready to be peeled and used in your favourite recipes. It will be several hours before the avocado starts to turn. I usually allow four hours as a minimum, but it can be much longer unless the avocado was over ripe, but is rarely less.
If you are making into a guacamole, the addition of lime juice will mean the sauce will keep even longer. Once made, cover with plastic wrap for even better results.
