Although you’re probably most accustomed to eating avocados in savory dishes, they are, in fact, a fruit. Botanically, these versatile fruits are a type of berry with one large seed.
The avocado fruit grows on the Persea Americana – also known as the avocado tree. This flowering tree is native to South Central Mexico and is a member of the plant family named Lauraceae. The tree now grows successfully in tropical climates across the globe.
The avocado, which is also often referred to as the alligator pear, is an integral ingredient in many cuisines – from Mexican to Japanese and almost everywhere in between. Popular ways to showcase the avocado’s mild and creamy flesh include the delicious Mexican dip guacamole, salads, sushi, on toast, and in chilled milkshake-style drinks that are common throughout South East Asia.