Whole, half or frozen: Learn how to store avocados properly

Por be a ‘neutral’ food, but very nutritious, avocado is used in various recipes. However, there is a catch: its durability is greatly reduced, especially when it is not kept in the right conditions.

Thinking about it, an article by Martha Stewart reveals how it should be done. 

How to store whole avocados

The first step in storing avocados begins at the supermarket. Chef Johnny Hernandez advises that greener avocados be preferred, and the process of ripening may happen at home. 

Whole green avocados 

“ If you are not in a hurry to use the avocado, leave it at room temperature”, notes Hernandez. If there's no room on the counter, you can keep it in the pantry. In both cases, separate avocados so that they do not touch and avoid putting them in a bowl. When stored like this, avocados for up to five days. 

To mature: “If you have green avocados and want to accelerate the process of maturing, wrap them in newspaper and put them in a closed paper case,” notes Hernandez. Then put the avocados in a hot place, for example, near the stove”.

Mature whole avocados

After ripe, avocados are at the height of their freshness and must be consumed immediately. If you don't want to consume them, then keep them in the fridge to prolong their freshness.

The vegetable drawer is ideal because it is warmer than the top shelves. If this is not possible, you should put the avocados in a fresh kitchen. 

How to store avocado halves

To get the best flavor and texture, Hernandez recommends cutting the avocado only when using it. However, if you need to store an already cut avocado, the correct method will keep you fresh for longer. 

Half of avocado

To store half of an avocado (with or without lump), follow these steps:

– Brush the pulp of the avocado with lemon juice or lime. This will help minimize air exposure and delay darkening, caused by a chemical process called oxidation;

– Involve avocado in adherent film well to further reduce exposure to air;

– Place the avocado in an airtight container;

– Put it in the vegetable drawer in the fridge. “When stored correctly, the cut avocado can last about a day in the fridge,” says Rubio.

Is it possible to freeze avocado?

Although it is better to consume the fresh avocado, it is possible to freeze it. 

1. Peel, remove the lump and cut the avocado into slices. You can also cut it into cubes;

2. “Cover [the avocado] with lemon juice or lime to prevent it from getting dark,” says Rubio;

3. Line a baking dish with vegetable paper. Have the avocado in the baking pan in a single layer, making sure to keep the slices separate; 

4. freeze for one to two hours, or until it is completely frozen;

5. Transfer the avocado to a container or bag suitable for freezing. If you use a bag, remove the excess air. 

Note: Like most fruits, avocado can be stored in the freezer for eight to twelve months, but consuming it before that period ensures the best flavor and texture. 

Frozen avocados are not as versatile as fresh ones. In addition, thawing can leave them with a granulated and unpleasant texture, so the ideal is to add them directly to the recipes.