Americans consume approximately 2 billion pounds of avocados a year. Only about one-third of these avocados are grown in California, but that is changing. Most of the avocados grown in California are grown in the southern half of the state in a narrow strip along its coastline. The Hass variety of avocado accounts for 95% of all the avocados grown as food.

Why avocados grow well in the PV Mediterranean climate

Avocado trees are native to Mexico and don’t tolerate subfreezing temperatures. The Hass avocado tree that is produced in California was an accidental hybrid created from the Mexican variety. It has slightly more tolerance to cold but still requires protection during the winter months in the interior of the state.

Avocados are considered sub-tropical plant, which means they don’t tolerate frost or wind. Humidity and heat are required to grow avocado trees, which is why they grow so well in Mediterranean climates.

Which avocados are most delicious?

The Hass avocado is the most famous variety of avocado and is considered to be the tastiest. It has an intense flavour and a very creamy flesh, making it perfect for making guacamole. This variety, the one primarily grown in California, was created by accident in the 1930s by a mail carrier named Rudolf Hass.

The Hass avocado is the most commercially available avocado due to its flavour, long shelf-life and high growth yield. It can also be harvested year round.

A simple avocado recipe to make and enjoy

Stuffed avocado halves are a great way to eat this healthy fruit for any meal. It has a creamy texture that pairs great with eggs and bacon for breakfast. Try this recipe for a novel breakfast idea or a healthy snack.

Avocado Egg Boats

Ingredients

Two ripe avocados, cut in half with pits removed

Four large eggs

Kosher salt

Fresh ground black pepper

Three slices of bacon

Fresh, chopped chives for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Scoop one tablespoon of avocado out of each half; set aside for another use.

2. Place hollowed avocados into a baking dish, crack eggs into a bowl, one at a time. Transfer one egg yolk to each avocado half using a spoon. Spoon in as much egg white as you can fit without spilling over the edge of the avocado half.

3. Season with salt and pepper and bake until egg whites are set, and yolks are firm, usually about 20-25 minutes. If avocados start to turn brown, cover them with tin foil.

4. Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp, approximately 8 minutes, then transfer to a paper towel lined plate and chop into small pieces.

5. Top avocado halves with bacon and chives before serving.

SUBSCRIBE FREE TO PALOS VERDES PULSE!