We Tried the Viral Avocado Ripening Hack, and We’ll Never Do It Any Other Way Again

An underripe avocado can easily ruin a dish. At its peak, it should be soft, buttery, and easily smashed to form guacamole or a sandwich spread. However, just before it reaches its ideal state, the fruit is hard and bland. And though we may try to make it work, hoping that enough mashing will do the trick, an unripe avocado doesn’t come close to the silky texture of one that’s in its prime.

Sure, you could speed up the process by microwaving it, but that doesn’t achieve the texture and flavor you crave. Storing it in a paper bag for a day or two also works, but it won’t help get dinner on the table tonight.

Fortunately, there’s a new 10-minute method sweeping the internet. This quick fix seemed too good to be true, so we put it to the test.

How To Ripen Avocados Quickly With Boiling Water

All you need to try this easy avocado ripening trick is ten minutes and a bowl of boiling water. First, you’ll need to wrap the underripe avocado tightly in aluminum foil. Then, place the avocado in a large bowl. Next, pour boiling water over the avocado until it’s covered, then wait 10 minutes. If your avocado is already a little soft, consider reducing this time by half. Some social media users have had success in as little as three minutes.

When the time is up, you’ll notice that the avocado is no longer dark green and has likely developed light patches. Once you slice it open, the previously firm center should now be softened to perfection, ready to use in salad, sauces, and dip.

Allrecipes’ Nicole McLaughlin was initially unsure about the technique. “My prediction is that it softens it. But does it really ripen it?” she wondered. After trying the unconventional method, her skepticism quickly faded. “Wow,” she said while gently squeezing the avocado. “I am a little shook.”

Overall, McLaughlin approved of the tip. “It might not be quite as buttery as a naturally ripe avocado, but it definitely gets the job done,” she said.

If the avocado’s taste is lacking, there are a few ways to quickly boost flavor. Salt is usually the best place to start. In addition, bold spices, such as chili powder, can mask lingering bitterness, and a splash of lime or lemon juice will instantly brighten it up.

So, the next time you find yourself with an underripe avocado, give this quick fix a try and see for yourself if it’s worth the hype.