All about Avocado

SUPER FOOD OF THE MONTH: Avocado

The avocado remains one of the best super foods in the world!

What it is: Also called an ‘alligator pear’, the avocado is a dark green fruit found on the avocado tree (Persea Americana).

Where it’s from: The avocado tree is a native from Central Mexico. It was introduced to South Africa during the 19th century and today we have five different varieties of avocado, namely Fuerte, Hass, Pinkerton, Edranol and Ryan.

Where it’s produced: Originally from Mexico, it comes as no surprise that Mexico is the largest producer of avocados. Although other major avocado producing countries include Chile, Peru, the United States and Indonesia, South Africa is also said to be one of the world’s biggest producers of avos, ranking among the top three exporters to Europe.

What it tastes and looks like: Avocados have a texture similar to a firm ripe banana – smooth and buttery – with a faintly nutty flavour. Usually pear-, oval-, or egg-shaped, the avocado has a large, round pip (or stone) in the middle with a dark green outer flesh.

How to use/eat it: Easily stone and peel an avocado by cutting it in half (lengthways) from the front through to the pip, and then twist the two halves in opposite directions to gently pull apart. Use a spoon to remove the pip, but leave it in when using only one half (this will slow down the discolouration process). Enjoy avo in a variety of dishes like salads, guacamole, sandwiches, soups, and many more!

A good source of: An assortment of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B6, magnesium and potassium. Avocados are also great energy boosters and have the highest concentration of dietary fibre of any commonly eaten fruit.

Benefits: Regarded for years as one of the elite super foods, avocados are known for their amazing health benefits, some of which include lowering cholesterol levels and controlling blood pressure, reducing the risk of stroke and promoting eye and heart health. Avocado oil has also been used in many cosmetic products for its anti-ageing and nourishment properties.

Avocado-banana smoothie

For a twist on avocado recipes, why not try this smoothie for a nutritious, fresh breakfast?

Ingredients
• 1 avocado
• 1 banana
• ½ cup non-fat plain Greek yoghurt
• 1 ½ cups fresh orange juice
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 ½ to 3 cups ice

Method
Combine all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Serve immediately.

Recipe from MarthaStewart.com

Image: Shutterstock.com

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