Avocados are incredibly healthy and multifunctional, making them a terrific complement to various dishes. But isn’t it frustrating while you’re at the store and the green goodies on sale are hard as a rock, seeing that you may ask, “Can you ripen avocados in the microwave?”
Moreover, it might be aggravating to have to stand by for an avocado to mature perfectly, especially if you need it the same day. But it usually takes a few days for an immature avocado to reach the stage when its interior is soft enough to consume.
I know, you’re probably skeptical. Right?
Avocado ripening in a microwave! Is it really possible?
The answer is that it is, and we’ll tell you more about it below:
Is it possible to ripen an avocado in the microwave?
Yes, you can ripen an avocado using a microwave. When you microwave it, the avocado will become softer. You can then put it in your favorite dish. However, keep in mind that it won’t have the same flavor as an avocado ripened naturally.
Consequently, microwaving avocados to ripen them must only be attempted as a last option. I say this because you can expect to lose the avocado’s inherent buttery flavor and smooth texture if you use the microwave. Personally, this is my go-to method for immediately ripening avocados at home. The reason for this is that it’s both safe, and simple, and it gets the job done.
Imagine friends and family coming over for that amazing dinner and games night you planned.
Only for you to realize that the avocado you had sitting on the counter from last night still has not reached that peak of ripeness.
Yikes!
The thought of a games night without your award-winning guacamole is worse than any scary movie.
Ding! There goes the alarm and here comes the microwave to save you.
How do you quickly ripen an avocado in the microwave?
You achieve this by slicing the avocado in two and covering both pieces in cling wrap. The avocados should then be heated for a brief time, no more than 30 seconds apiece. Then, in a dish of icy water, submerge the heated avocados.
In my experience, using the microwave to ripen an avocado without completely cooking it takes some significant consideration. To correctly soften avocado in the microwave. You must first understand the microwave power level and watts. If using a 1000-wattage microwave, reduce the power level to a minimum and heat for 15 to 20 seconds. Quickly check your fruit after each period and redo it as needed.
If your microwave has a wattage of 700. Use the medium power level and soften or warm the fruit in 30-second time spans. Nevertheless, I recommend that avocados should still be allowed to mature naturally. On the other hand, the microwave approach softens the avocado sufficiently to prepare your dish.
In addition, it loosens the skin and makes it easier to peel off.
Is it safe to microwave an avocado?
You can rest assured that it is safe to microwave that not-so-ripe avocado you are eager to use. However, you must first consider the type of avocado, weight, cooking time, and power level. When you microwave the fruit, there are two typical outcomes. It’s either softening or an explosion.
Let me explain.
Avocados ripen naturally as a result of chemical interaction. Avocados emit ethylene gas. The gas helps them mature into the distinctively nutty flavor and smooth consistency you enjoy. However, an avocado can burst if it is snuggly wrapped and heated in the microwave. Within the fruit, the gas and steam become imprisoned. The result of this is unwanted tension. Afterwhich, the skin may explosively rip open.
Thankfully, to avoid this blow-up, listed below are two things you can do prior to microwaving this luscious fruit.
- Firstly, to release this internal fume, tension, and air. Firmly stick the avocado three to four times with a blade or skewer to puncture the skin of the fruit.
- Second, detach the pit from the avocado by diagonally cutting the fruit in half.
You must remain cautious of the possible dangers that might occur while microwaving an avocado. Hence, to be safe, reheat in small amounts. Please be careful not to burn yourself.
Tips to microwave avocado.
A ripe avocado may be used in a variety of delicious meals. What you do with the avocados after they’ve been microwaved makes a big difference in the end. Let’s discuss several tips to keep in mind when you opt for this method.
- To steer clear of your avocado blowing up due to high heat. Adjust the power level and cook duration of your microwave.
- Wrap each half of the avocado separately, not together.
- Before microwaving, remove the pit. Otherwise, it may interfere with the equal diffusion of heat throughout the fruit.
- If cling wrap is unavailable. Substituting paper towels, or parchment paper are all good options.
- When putting the avocado in the microwave, ensure the flesh is facing up and the peel is on the plate.
- The cling wrap you’re using to wrap the avocado should be microwave-safe. Otherwise, it may melt and cause sparking in the microwave, which isn’t ideal.
The Bottom line
Although it is predominantly safe and possible to fast ripen an avocado in the microwave. The precious fruit’s consistency and taste may be altered.
Ideally, allowing an avocado to ripen naturally is the best way to go. On the other hand, time may not always allow for this to happen. So, your best bet may just be to pop that avocado in the microwave, and voila! In two minutes or less, you are on your way to preparing that delectable avocado dish you dreamed of.
Ultimately, the must-have for this method is an avocado, a microwave, and some cling wrap! You will thank me later when realizing how much of a lifesaver this is. Enjoy!
FAQ
How can I tell if my avocados are ripe?
To determine if your avocados are ripe, gently press the skin with your fingers. If it yields to gentle pressure, then it is likely a ripe avocado.
What should I do if my avocados are unripe?
If you have unripe avocados, place them in a brown paper bag and store them at room temperature for 2-5 days until they ripen.
Is there a way to speed up the ripening process of an avocado?
Yes, you can speed up the ripening process by placing the unripe avocado in a brown paper bag with an apple or banana or microwaving them as showed above. The ethylene gas produced by these fruits will help accelerate the ripening process.
Can I use a microwave to quickly ripen my avocados?
While microwaving frozen avocado may be possible, it is not recommended as it can affect its texture and flavor. Instead, try using the brown paper bag method or leaving them on your kitchen counter until they become ripe.
How should I store ripe avocados?
To keep your ripe avocados fresh for longer periods of time, tightly wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. This will slow down their natural ripening process and extend their shelf life.
Can I microwave an avocado that has already been cut open?
It is not recommended to microwave an already cut open avocado as this could cause uneven heating and potentially ruin its taste and texture.
How can I ripen avocados faster?
To ripen avocados quickly, place them in a paper bag with some avocado chunks or an apple. The avocado ripening process is sped up by the ethylene gas produced by these fruits. Alternatively, you can wrap the hard avocados in microwave safe plastic wrap and microwave for 30 seconds to one minute.
What should I do if my avocados are very hard?
If your hass avocado is very hard, it may taste unripe. To soften it up, try wrapping it in microwave safe plastic wrap and microwaving for 30 seconds to one minute. You can also put the avocado wrapped in a paper bag with some ripe avocado chunks or an apple to speed up the ripening process.
Can I freeze avocados?
Yes, you can freeze frozen avocado! Simply cut open the ripe fruit and remove the pit before scooping out the flesh into a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen avocado will keep well for several months.
What’s the best way to store leftover avocado?
To store leftover hass avocado, cover any exposed flesh tightly with microwave safe plastic wrap or place it cut-side down on a plate and cover with cling film. This will help prevent browning caused by exposure to air.
How do I know when an avocado is ripe enough to eat?
The easiest way to tell if an hass avocado is ripe enough to eat is by gently pressing on its skin – if it gives slightly under pressure but doesn’t feel mushy then it’s ready! If your avocados are still too hard after trying all of these methods, leave them at room temperature until they’re soft enough for your liking.