Avocado oil is extracted from the flesh of ripe avocados. It is rich in healthy fats, particularly oleic acid, which is known for its heart health benefits. Besides culinary uses, avocado oil is also praised for its moisturizing properties in skincare and haircare routines.

Before diving into the process, let’s look at some of the benefits of avocado oil:

Rich in Healthy Fats: Approximately 70% of avocado oil is oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that can help improve heart health by raising good HDL cholesterol levels.
Antioxidant Properties: Avocado oil is packed with antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Skin Benefits: Its fatty acids make it an excellent moisturizer, and it may help with conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
Nutrient Absorption: Avocado oil can enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and nutrients from other foods.

Making avocado oil at home involves a simple process that anyone can follow. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

10 ripe or overripe avocados: The number of avocados can be adjusted based on the amount of oil you wish to produce.

Blender or food processor
Parchment paper
Tray for drying
Nut milk bag or muslin cloth
Container for storing the oil

Step 1: Prepare the Avocado Paste

Mash the Avocados: Begin by removing the pits and scooping the flesh of the avocados into a blender or food processor. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
Spread the Paste: Line a tray with parchment paper and spread the avocado paste into a thin layer, ensuring it is less than 1/2 inch thick.

Step 2: Dry the Paste

Drying Process: Allow the avocado paste to dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. This can take several days (4-5 days).
Mixing: Each day, mix the paste at least twice (morning and evening) to ensure even drying. When the paste appears dark brown and no longer sticks to your spoon, it is ready for oil extraction.

Step 3: Extract the Oil

Squeeze the Paste: Place the dried avocado paste into a nut milk bag or muslin cloth. Squeeze the bag to extract the oil into a container. You can also let it drain naturally and squeeze it at the end for maximum oil yield.
Strain: If there are any bits in the oil, strain it again before transferring it to a sterilized glass container.

Store your homemade avocado oil in an airtight container, away from direct heat and sunlight. Properly stored, it can last for several months, and refrigeration can extend its shelf life even further.

Avocado oil is incredibly versatile. Here are some popular uses:

Cooking: Ideal for frying, sautéing, and baking due to its high smoke point (about 480°F or 250°C).
Salad Dressings: Use it as a base for vinaigrettes or marinades.
Beauty Applications: Apply it as a moisturizer, hair mask, or in DIY beauty treatments.
Nutritional Boost: Add a tablespoon to smoothies for a healthy fat boost.

Making avocado oil at home is a straightforward process that not only helps you utilize overripe avocados but also provides a fresh, additive-free oil for cooking and beauty. With its numerous health benefits and versatile applications, avocado oil is truly a kitchen staple worth making yourself. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to experiment with the leftover avocado pulp in your recipes!