Information about Fruits: Avocado

About avocados, information about the fruit, production, history and varieties in the world.

FRUITS OF THE EARTH

Avocado

Heavily cultivated in the U.S., South Africa, and Mexico. Chile, Brazil, and Australia are other big growers. Most of the U.S. crop is grown in southern Florida, Hawaii, and California. Avocados may be purchased unripe and allowed to mature. A recommended method of testing for ripeness is to place the avocado in the palm of the hand and squeeze gently. If it feels soft under the skin, it is ripe. The skin color varies with variety--some are green, others are black. Avoid soft-skinned green varieties that are turning black or have black spots. These are overripe.

Avocados provide thiamine, riboflavin, and vitamin A. They are delicious by themselves, mixed with salads, or added to cooked dishes. Try "guacamole," a Mexican recipe that blends mashed avocado with onions, tomatoes, garlic, and sometimes lemon juice (will keep it from darkening).