Ripen Avocados in 24 Hours with a Paper Bag and Banana

The Problem

You bought avocados that are rock hard. They won't be ready for days and you need guacamole tonight.

The Hack

Place unripe avocados in a brown paper bag with a ripe banana. Fold the top closed. Leave on the counter.

Why It Works

Ripe bananas produce high levels of ethylene gas, which triggers ripening in avocados. The paper bag traps the gas around the avocados, concentrating its effect.

Pro Tips

• An apple works too if you don't have a banana
• Check after 12-24 hours — don't let them over-ripen
• The bag must be paper, not plastic — plastic traps too much moisture
• For even faster results, add two bananas