Uses of Avocado

Avocados are a versatile food, and you can eat them or use them for a myriad of things beyond eating. Their rich, creamy texture and nutritional content make them a popular choice for many recipes and applications. Here are some common and creative uses of avocados:

Culinary Uses Of Avocado

Meals and Sides

• Guacamole: Guacamole is the most famous use of avocados. It is a classic dip Mexicans make by mashing avocados with lime juice, cilantro, onions, tomatoes, and chilli peppers. A similar recipe in Kenya, ‘kachumbari’, uses the same ingredients but diced. Kenyans add lime or lemon to keep the avocado looking fresh and serve it alongside most dishes, mainly barbecue, also known as ‘nyama choma’. In Mexican cuisine, you serve it with tortilla chips, tacos, or as a condiment.
• Salads: Sliced or diced avocados add a creamy texture to salads. Diced avocado pairs well with ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, greens, and proteins like chicken, shrimp, or any shredded meats.
• Avocado Toast is a trendy and simple breakfast or snack. Though Africans consume their bread fresh and hardly toasted, avocados make great fresh bread sandwiches and replace the use of butter. Spread mashed avocado on toasted bread and add toppings like eggs, tomatoes, or spices.
• Sushi: Sushi is a new addition to African cuisine, with people from all over the world settling on the continent. Avocado is a familiar ingredient in sushi rolls, increasing the possibility of more people trying the dish. It adds creaminess and a mild flavour that complements fish and other ingredients.
• Sandwiches and Wraps: Avocado slices or spreads can replace mayonnaise or other condiments in sandwiches and wraps, giving a healthier and more flavourful twist. Wraps are also a new introduction to African cuisine. Kenyans use ‘chapati’ for their wraps. Chapati originated in India and is very similar to soft tortillas.
• Soups: If you want to try something nontraditional, blend avocados in cold soups like gazpacho or add them as a garnish to hot soups for extra creaminess. This makes for a wholesome meal in all weathers.

Drinks and Desserts

• Smoothies: Blend avocados in smoothies to add creaminess and a boost of healthy fats. They go well with fruits like bananas, berries, and spinach.
• Desserts: Avocado is great for desserts like puddings, mousses, and ice cream. A while back, a popular ice cream nicknamed ‘scad’ used creamy blended avocado juice and ice cream in Kenya’s coastal region. This continues to be a favourite cold dessert in households. It is also a good addition to serve guests with a creamy texture and mild flavour, making it a great base for sweet treats, especially in vegan and dairy-free recipes.
• Baking: Avocados are a healthier alternative to butter or oil in baking recipes, such as brownies or muffins. You may want to experiment to find a combination that works best for your recipe.

Nutritional Uses Of Avocado

• Dietary Supplements: Avocados are a superfood because they are a great source of vitamins and minerals, like potassium, vitamin E, and folate. They also contain healthy fats that are good for the heart and reduce cholesterol levels.
• Weight Management: Avocados are a high source of fibre, so they make you feel full, which makes them good for weight management. However, because they are nutrient-dense, they satisfy hunger without overindulging.
• Healthy Fat Source: Avocados are often included in ketogenic and low-carb diets because they contain healthy fatty acids that support overall health and function.

Beauty and Skincare Uses Of Avocado

• Facial Masks: You can use avocados in DIY facial masks due to their moisturizing properties. The natural oils in avocados help hydrate and nourish all skin types. They are especially ideal for dry and sensitive skin. Mash up the avocado and mix it with honey or yoghurt for a soothing face mask.
• Hair Treatments: Avocados are a deep conditioner. The oils and vitamins in avocados help strengthen and moisturize hair, making it shinier and more manageable. You can apply mashed avocado directly to your hair. Adjust it for different hair types or mix it with ingredients like coconut oil or egg.
• Hand and Foot Cream: Avocado oil is a natural moisturizer for dry hands and feet. Its rich texture helps soothe and soften rough or cracked skin.
• Lip Balm: Avocado oil provides hydration and protection for dry or chapped lips.

Household and Miscellaneous Uses Of Avocado

• Natural Dye: Use it to create a natural dye that produces pink or peach tones. You can use it to colour fabrics, yarns, or even Easter eggs.
• Composting: If you don’t use the entire avocado, use its skin and pit in compost. After breaking down, they add nutrients to your compost pile.
• Ornamental Uses: Sprout the avocado seed and grow it into a houseplant. Although it may not produce fruit indoors, it can still be an attractive and interesting plant to have in your home.

Conclusion

Avocados are much more than just a trendy food item. From their culinary versatility to their beauty benefits and even household uses, avocados have earned their place as a staple in many kitchens and homes. Whether you’re enjoying them in a salad, using them in a skincare routine, or finding creative ways to reduce waste, avocados offer a wide range of uses that go beyond just being a tasty fruit.