How to choose the perfect avocado: key points to consider while shopping.
Avocado has quickly gained popularity, yet many individuals are often left disappointed after their first experience. The reason usually lies in their inability to properly select a ripe and tasty fruit. If your initial encounter was unsuccessful, don’t be quick to give up on avocados. UNIAN has shared tips on what to look for in the store to choose the perfect avocado.
How to Select a Ripe Avocado
To check if an avocado is ripe, gently press on it. If it slightly yields under your fingers but quickly returns to its original shape, the fruit is ripe. An avocado that is too hard is not yet ripe, while one that is overly soft may be overripe.
It's also important to pay attention to its appearance. Ensure there is no mold, dark spots, and that the skin is a uniform color. If you're torn between choosing a dark or green avocado, always opt for the darker one, as this indicates it is ripe.
A handy tip is to check the area around the stem. If it is yellowish or light brown, feel free to buy it; the avocado is ripe. However, if the stem area shows green, it is underripe.
Signs of Low-Quality Avocado
Here are the signs to avoid when purchasing:
Mold has formed on the stem.
The avocado is too soft when pressed – there’s a risk it may be overripe.
There are cuts or dents on the avocado.
Some areas have dark spots.
What a Good Avocado Should Look Like Inside
A ripe avocado should have a gradient of color inside: the flesh near the pit is lighter, while it darkens closer to the skin. If you see black or brown specks inside, this is a sign that it is overripe.
How to Choose a Hass Avocado
The main difference between Hass avocados and regular ones is their color. These fruits are covered in a purple or nearly black skin. Additionally, they are much creamier and softer, with a rich nutty flavor.
To properly select a Hass avocado, you should gently press on the fruit near the stem – droplets of oil should appear. This indicates that the fruit is ripe and ready to eat. Another tip is to gently shake the avocado: you should feel the pit moving inside the fruit.