Delicooks

The avocado is native to Mexico and Guatemala. The first Spaniards who
came to America called it "Indies pear" because of its superficial
 resemblance to Spanish pears. Thanks to its nutritional properties, it is 
highly recommended for all segments of the population: children, youth,
adults, athletes, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the elderly.

Properties of avocados.

The avocado is the fruit of Persea Americana, a tree belonging to the 
Lauraceae family that requires a very warm climate to grow. The color of 
the rind of the fruit varies depending on the ripeness and on the variety of
avocado. Harvesting is usually done by hand, as it is a very delicate fruit. It
is rich in monounsaturated healthy fats, which regulate cholesterol levels 
and promote cardiovascular-system functioning.

The avocado is a good 
source of antioxidant vitamins. It contains Vitamin D, which is particularly
important for regulating the absorption and fixation of calcium in our bones,
and Vitamin E, which also benefits our cardiovascular system and skin. It is
 also rich in magnesium, potassium and calcium and low in sodium, so it is
 highly recommended for people suffering from hypertension or heart
disease. However, its potassium content should be noted by people with
 kidney problems and who are following controlled diets that are low in this 
mineral. It’s also high in calories, so it should be consumed in moderation if 
you are overweight or obese.

How to buy avocados

You can buy them at any grocery store. There should be no signs of 
bruising, stains or signs of over ripeness..

The avocado is ripe when the skin yields to gentle pressure from the
fingers. The flesh should be soft and creamy. If not fully ripe, they should 
be left at room temperature for 1 to 3 days.

How to keep avocados?

If you buy them ripe, store them in the warmest part of the refrigerator,
about 6 ° C - 10 º C, to prevent further ripening.
They can be frozen. To do this, first remove the pulp, mash and mix with a
little lemon juice. Store in an airtight container or in freezer bags.

Cooking with avocados

They are best raw, combined with other raw vegetables in salads or simply
spread like butter. The taste of the flesh reminds some people of walnuts. 
We do not recommend cooking them it as they become bitter, although
 they may be gently warmed.

Did you know?

The name of this fruit comes from the Aztec word ahuacatl, meaning
testicle. Its shape and high content of vitamin E (related to reproduction), is thus believed by some to have aphrodisiac properties.