Did you know avocados are one of those fruits that ripen fully after picking? I didn’t. I thought that when I grabbed a rock hard avocado it was because they hadn’t allowed it to ripen before picking it. Nope, nope, nope. It turns out, it just means I have to take it home and help it along.
To ripen an avocado, place it in a brown paper back and store it in a cool {not the fridge–that’s too cold, it will never ripen} dark place. Using this method, the avocado will ripen in 3-6 days {sooner if your house is really warm}. If you need to speed up the process, add a tomato, apple or banana to the paper bag. It will cut the ripening time down to 1-3 days. You will be able to tell when the avocado is ripe because it will change in color from green to a dark green/brown. It will also give a little when you squeeze it.
If on the flip side, your store only has super ripe avocados, you can refrigerate them and extend their life up to 5 days by stopping the ripening process.
~Mavis
Also see, How to Freeze Avocados
Laura says
As a California native way back, I agree with what you say about ripeness and ripening, in general, for the Hass variety only. Other varieties don’t change color, or the color dulls. The surest way to know it’s ripe is by gentle pressure. It will give a little, yet remain firm.
Have you ever grown the pit into a pretty house plant? (Or outdoor plant in frost-free areas) It’s fun for kids to do.
Bridget Holmes says
My favorite thing about gardening is fresh delish cucumbers all summer long! And Caprese salad with garden fresh tomatoes and basil, I’ve been eating that ALOT this summer !