• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Recipes by Nora
  • Recipe Index
  • About
  • Contact
  • Subscribe
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipe Index
  • About
  • Contact
  • Subscribe
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipe Index
    • About
    • Contact
    • Subscribe
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • ×

    Home » Ingredient Guides

    Avocado

    Published: May 22, 2023 by Nora Rey · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    0 shares
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Email

    Avocado, scientifically known as Persea americana, is a pear-shaped fruit belonging to the Laurel family. Commonly referred to as the "alligator pear," it is a berry with one large seed in the middle. It is highly valued not only for its creamy texture and rich flavor but also for its abundant health benefits.

    Hass variety of avocados, whole and halves.
    Hass avocados
    Jump to:
    • The Philippine Variety
    • Hass Avocados
    • How healthy are avocados?
    • Can you eat too much avocado?
    • How to buy avocados
    • How to store and ripen avocados
    • How to cut an avocado
    • Avocado in Filipino cuisine
    • Other ingredient guides you may like
    • 💬 Comments

    The Philippine Variety

    Avocados in the Philippines are known for their large size and attractive appearance. They have smooth, glossy green skin with yellow-green flesh.

    A variety of Philippine avocados hanging from a tree.

    Compared to other varieties, they tend to be more watery and slightly less creamy or oily. Their flavor is very mild, making them a perfect choice for sweet dishes that benefit from added sugar. These avocados are available year-round in the Philippines, but their peak season generally falls between June and September.

    A half of Philippine variety of avocado with the seed.

    Hass Avocados

    There are hundreds of avocado cultivars grown worldwide, but the Hass variety stands out as the most popular one. It is available year-round and is named after Rudolph Hass, a postman and horticulturist from Southern California.

    Hass avocado cut in half.

    Hass avocados are smaller and more compact compared to the Philippine variety. The skin is thick, bumpy or pebbled that turns dark purplish-black when ripe. Their flesh is smooth, creamy, and buttery in texture. They have a superior taste with a rich, nutty flavor and subtle hints of sweetness.

    Peeling half of the avocado.

    How healthy are avocados?

    Avocados have an impressive nutritional profile, providing essential nutrients such as folate, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins C, E, K, and several B vitamins. They are an excellent source of healthy fats that help lower bad cholesterol levels (LDL) and reduce the risk of heart disease.

    Avocados provide a substantial amount of fiber that supports digestive health, weight management, and blood sugar control. It can contribute to a feeling of fullness, potentially reducing overeating.

    With a low glycemic index (GI) of approximately 40 (where foods with a GI of 55 or less are considered low), avocados are less likely to cause significant spikes in blood glucose levels.

    While avocados are generally safe to eat, it's essential to be mindful of allergies or sensitivities. If you have specific health concerns or need personalized guidance, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

    Can you eat too much avocado?

    Although avocados are highly nutritious, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes because of their calorie content. One avocado (201 grams) contains about 322 calories, making up 10-20% of daily calorie requirements.

    Limiting consumption to less than one avocado per day is recommended to maintain a healthy weight and make room for other sources of healthy fats. Keep in mind that individual nutrient needs vary, so consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

    How to buy avocados

    If you need avocados for immediate use, look for ones that are already ripe or close to being ripe. Choose firm ones that yield slightly to pressure, avoiding those with soft or mushy spots. A heavier avocado for its size often indicates more flesh and ripeness. Hass avocados have dark skin when ripe.

    You can also remove the small stem or cap at the top. If it easily comes off and reveals green flesh, it's likely ripe and ready to eat. If it is brown or black underneath, it may be overripe or spoiled. If you plan to use them in a few days, choose slightly firmer avocados that can ripen over time.

    How to store and ripen avocados

    If you have ripe avocados that you're not planning to use immediately, store them in the refrigerator to slow down the ripening process.

    If your avocados are still unripe, store them at room temperature in a cool and dry area away from direct sunlight. To speed up ripening, place them in a paper bag with a banana or apple, as these fruits release ethylene gas that promotes ripening.

    To prevent avocados from overripening too quickly, individually wrap them in plastic wrap. It helps create a barrier and slows down the release of ethylene gas, which is produced by the avocado itself and can speed up ripening.

    If you have cut avocados, tightly wrap the unused portion, preferably with the pit and refrigerate. To prevent it from browning, you can brush the exposed surface with an acid (lemon, lime, or vinegar).

    How to cut an avocado

    To cut an avocado, use a sharp knife to slice lengthwise around it, reaching the pit. Rotate and twist the halves apart. Remove the pit by striking it with the knife, then scoop out the flesh with a spoon or peel it. Exercise caution as avocados can be slippery.

    Removing the avocado pit.

    Avocado in Filipino cuisine

    Avocados are highly versatile, commonly used in guacamole, salads, sandwiches, and other savory recipes. Filipino cuisine often highlights avocados in sweet preparations like desserts and beverages. They are sometimes enjoyed as a standalone fruit, complemented by a sprinkle of sugar. Here are some other ways we use avocados:

    • Avocado and Milk in Ice: The easiest, most popular Fiipino avocado dessert where avocados are cut up and combined with ice and evaporated and/or condensed milk.
    • Avocado Shake or Smoothie: Ripe avocados are blended with milk, ice, and sugar to create a creamy and refreshing beverage.
    • Avocado Ice Cream: Sorbetes-style avocado ice cream, a delicious frozen treat traditionally made with avocados, coconut milk, and/or carabao milk.
    • Avocado Ice Candy: A frozen treat in a small plastic casing or tube made by blending avocados with milk, sugar, and additional flavorings.

    Other ingredient guides you may like

    • Salted Egg (Itlog na Maalat)
      Salted Egg (Itlog na Maalat)
    • Ube (Purple Yam) and Purple Sweet Potatoes
    • Nata de Coco in a bowl
      Nata de Coco
    • Mangoes
      Mango (Mangga)

    Did you like this post? I would love to know! Your feedback helps me make better recipes.  Please rate, review, or comment below. Questions about this post are welcome, too!

    Let's connect on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, Twitter, and Youtube. Be sure to tag me when you try any of my recipes @recipesbynora!

    More Ingredient Guides

    • Sago in a bowl
      Sago
    • Shrimp Stock
      Shrimp Stock
    • Sweet Chili Sauce in a bowl
      Sweet Chili Sauce
    • lechon sauce in a bowl
      Lechon Sauce (Sarsa ng Lechon)
    0 shares
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Email

    Reader Interactions

    Thanks for coming! Let me know what you think: Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    Nora smiling at you

    Hi, I'm Nora! Whether you're new to Filipino food or have loved it for so long, I sure am happy you're here!  I hope you'll find useful recipes that you can enjoy and share with family and friends.

    More about me →

    Popular Recipes

    • grilled pork belly on a plate
      Inihaw na Liempo (Grilled Pork Belly)
    • Beef Stir Fry with Onions and Peppers in a wok
      Beef Stir Fry with Onions & Peppers
    • mackerel in olive oil on a serving plate
      Mackerel in Olive Oil
    • Beef Caldereta served on a plate
      Beef Caldereta
    • buko pandan salad served in a cup
      Buko Pandan Salad
    • Kamayan Feast
      Kamayan Feast: Bringing Family and Friends Together

    Seasonal Desserts

    • Avocado & Milk in Ice
      Avocado and Milk in Ice
    • Ube (Purple Yam) Ice Cream
      Ube (Purple Yam) Ice Cream
    • Mango queso ice cream on a cone
      Mango Queso Ice Cream
    • Mango Sago in a cup
      Mango Sago
    • red velvet cupcakes
      Red Velvet Cupcakes
    • sliced loaf of banana bread
      Classic Banana Bread

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • Accessibility Statement
    • Cookie Policy
    • Disclaimer
    • Image Use & Copyright
    • Privacy Policy

    Contact

    • Contact

    Copyright © 2022 RECIPES BY NORA

    We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
    Do not sell my personal information.
    Cookie SettingsAccept
    Manage consent

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
    CookieDurationDescription
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
    viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
    Functional
    Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
    Performance
    Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
    Analytics
    Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
    Advertisement
    Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
    Others
    Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
    SAVE & ACCEPT
    0 shares