Did You Know "A"

So, here is the first of my "Did you know" posts.  Starting with A.  The first thing that pops into mind is the Avocado

Did you know the Avocado originated from Central America, and the name comes from the Mexican abuacatl, which means 'testicle.'

This sometimes round, and sometimes pear shaped fruit has a dark green, or purplish-brown skin, with a pale green buttery flesh, that taste's ever so slightly of hazelnuts, and a large round pit, or stone.

The fruit is ripe when it gives under pressure of the finger.  Avocados ripen well off the tree, or can be stored in the refrigerator where the ripening process slows down.

It was the Spanish that discovered the avocado tree, and sent the first saplings to other countries.  The avocado wasn't very popular for a long time, the first reference to it was in a cook book in France back in the 1950's.

The avocado is now cultivated in Australia, America, and throughout the warmer parts of Europe, the West Indies and Israel.  The popularity of the avocado today is largely due to Israel, who made a huge investment in the fruit following world war 2.

Avocados discolor quickly when peeled and exposed to the air, so they need to be prepared immediately before serving, or acidulating (sprinkling with lemon or lime juice).

Did you know that avocados provide around 20 essential nutrients including, vitamin C, B-vitamins, vitamin E, riboflavin, potassium folic acid and fiber.  Many of the essential vitamins required daily for a healthy diet are found in Avocados.

Many of the worlds leading nutrition organizations recommend including avocados in their dietary programs.

Now you know how good avocados are for you, cut one open and dig in... Alternatively make some delicious guacamole...

Guacamole

3 Avocados, halved, pitted and peeled

2 fl oz Lime juice

2 medium  Tomatoes, quartered

1 jalapeno, roughly chopped

1/2 red Onion, quartered

4 tbsp chopped Cilantro

1 tsp hot sauce

4 cloves Garlic, chopped

Kosher salt & Black Pepper

Combine the ingredients and process until well blended but still chunky.

Use immediately or cover tightly, pressing the cling wrap down to seal the air out,  and refrigerate until needed.

Best used the same day. Serve with warm tortillas...

Enjoy :o)