How to Ripen an Avocado

STEP

Fold the bag to close it and leave for 2–3 days. Fun fact: It’s the plant hormone ethylene, which occurs naturally in fruits like apples and bananas, that triggers the ripening process.

STEP

Craving an avocado but it’s still not ready to eat? To accelerate the ripening process, grab a paper bag and pop your avocado in, along with a banana, mango or apple.

Take the avocado out of the paper bag and use the palming method to check for ripeness (see How To Choose An Avocado, p.8).

STEP

USEFUL TIPS

Remember that Hass avocados have subtle differences in color and skin textures depending on where they are grown and when they are harvested. Some will turn dark brown or purplish, but some can also ripen green.