Preparing Avocados

1. Cut the avocado in half lengthways all the way round and down to the stone.
2. Twist the two halves in opposite directions and pull them apart.
3. Using the point of a knife, lift out the stone and remove it.

Avocado flesh will soon start to turn brown after it has been cut, so you should only prepare it just before you are ready to serve. Alternatively, sprinkle lemon or lime juice over its surface to prevent it from discolouring. This is particularly important for puréed dishes such as guacamole.