Tuesday’s Tip with The Kitchen Whisperer – Freezing Avocados

When avocados are in season, they are pretty cheap but when they are out of season the price is ridiculous. Find out today how to freeze them for later use!

Living in Pittsburgh we really don’t have an avocado season as they aren’t grown here but in the warmer months they tend to be less expensive in the stores. Typically I can buy a bag of 6 large ones for $5. But now, in late October you’re lucky if you can get away with not spending $2 each! It’s ridiculous to say the least!  What I found out is that you can actually freeze avocados! Genius, right?! It’s pretty simple to say the least but there is a catch. So avocados are soft and one of those veggies that turn brownish when air hits it. This happens as result of exposure to oxygen in the air, as well as the presence of phenolic compounds in the avocado itself. It’s the same principle as why apples brown. When you freeze them they don’t really brown but the texture is altered slightly.

When you freeze an avocado, slices or halves, and then thaw it out to use, the texture becomes even more softer. What this means is that you really can’t use it as slices on a sandwich or for presentation. It still tastes perfectly amazing but because it gets really soft, it’s best used for items like guac or chopped up in salads. But again, it’s not a big deal as they taste amazing still.

So how do you do it?

Easy – you have 2 choices:

1. Halved: Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit and hull it out from the skin. Brush all sides of the avocado with lemon juice and wrap each half it in plastic wrap. You want it wrapped tightly against the avocado. Repeat until they are all wrapped and then place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for several months. When you’re ready to use one, just thaw and enjoy!
2. Mashed: Scoop the flesh from the skin and place in a bowl. Add about 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, mash into desired consistency. I like chunks so I leave it more chunky. Place in a freezer bag and remove as much air from the bag as you can. Place the bag in the freezer and when you’re ready to eat, just thaw!

Pretty simple huh? Do you have a favorite recipe involving avocados?

Smashed Avocado Dippy Egg Breakfast Toast

Creamy Avocado Lime Dressing

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