Avocados are a beloved fruit, known for their creamy texture and rich flavor. However, they can be notoriously difficult to ripen just right. Often, you find yourself waiting days for them to reach the perfect softness, only to miss the window and end up with an overripe avocado. But what if you could ripen them almost instantly? My sister recently shared a clever trick with me that does just that, and I’m excited to share it with you.

Avocado ripening is a natural process driven by the release of ethylene gas, a plant hormone that triggers the conversion of starches into sugars, softening the fruit. This process can be slow, especially if the avocados are stored in a cool environment. Understanding this process is key to manipulating it for quicker results.

Traditionally, people have used methods like placing avocados in a paper bag with a banana or apple to speed up ripening. The idea is that the ethylene gas emitted by these fruits will accelerate the process. Others might leave avocados on the kitchen counter or in a sunny spot to encourage ripening.

My sister’s trick involves using the microwave to rapidly ripen avocados. While it might sound unconventional, this method can soften the fruit in minutes, making it ready for immediate use. It’s perfect for those moments when you need a ripe avocado on short notice.