Avocados are a beloved fruit, enjoyed in countless dishes like avocado toast and guacamole. But finding perfectly ripened avocados at the supermarket can be a challenge. They’re often rock hard, even when labeled as ripe. While you can let them ripen naturally, this process can take a while.
To expedite the ripening process, chef Kirk Muenzenberger (@kirkscookingandcocktails on TikTok) shared a simple yet effective hack. He claims this method can ripen avocados in just one day, making them “taste perfect.”
The hack involves placing the underripe avocado in a brown paper bag alongside fruits that produce ethylene gas, like apples, bananas, and kiwis. Ethylene gas is a natural plant hormone that helps fruits ripen faster. Kirk opted for two apples and a bunch of bananas for his hack.
After adding the fruits to the paper bag, simply roll it up tightly and leave it overnight. By morning, the avocados will be ripe and ready to use. Kirk demonstrated the effectiveness of this hack by showing viewers how hard the avocados were initially and how soft they became after one night in the bag.
If your avocado is already perfectly ripe but you’re not ready to use it, you can store it in the refrigerator. The cold temperature will help extend its shelf life for a few extra days.
Once you’ve cut into an avocado, there are ways to prevent browning. Leaving the pit in, squeezing lemon juice over it, and covering it with plastic wrap can help maintain its freshness. This simple trick eliminates the need for waiting several days for your avocados to ripen, ensuring you can enjoy them in your favorite recipes without delay.
