Why We Love Our Avocado and Toast!
Ah, the beautiful city of angels, Los Angeles! A city known for its glitz, glam, sunshine, and a fusion of vibrant cultures. But in recent years, it's also become synonymous with a particular breakfast dish – the humble, yet the ever-so-satisfying, avocado toast. Why do Angelenos, or the residents of L.A., have such a deep love affair with this simple dish? Let's explore.
The Healthy Lifestyle of L.A.
Los Angeles is well-known for its fitness-centric attitude. With year-round sunshine and the beach always beckoning, staying fit is almost an unwritten mandate for Angelenos. Avocado is packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and nutrients which help in boosting good cholesterol, nourishing the skin, and providing the body with essential nutrients. Slathering it on a piece of whole grain toast adds a dose of carbs and fiber, creating a balanced meal perfect for starting the day or as a midday pick-me-up.
California's Avocado Farms
Let’s not forget that California is the leading supplier of avocados in the United States. This means that Angelenos get some of the freshest avocados, straight from the farm. Freshness makes a difference in taste and texture, and nothing beats a perfectly ripe Californian avocado spread generously on toast.
Cultural Melting Pot
L.A.'s diverse demographic has resulted in a culinary scene that’s a delightful mishmash of various cuisines. Avocado toast in L.A. isn’t just the basic toast and avocado. You can find toasts topped with furikake (a Japanese seasoning), sprinkled with Tajín (a tangy Mexican spice), or adorned with pomegranate seeds and feta for a Mediterranean twist. This mix and match of flavors is very L.A.
A Canvas for Creativity
With its neutral taste and creamy texture, avocados provide the perfect canvas for culinary creativity. Trendy cafes in L.A. have taken this simple dish and elevated it with toppings like radishes, eggs, sprouts, and even lobster. For Angelenos, avocado toast is not just a dish, it's an experience.
Social Media Sensation
Let’s face it – avocado toast is Instagram-worthy! The green hue of the avocado contrasts brilliantly with the golden-brown toast, and the various toppings add layers of color and texture. It's a visual as well as a gastronomical delight. And in a city that thrives on art, movies, and creativity, avocado toast fits right in.
Sustainability Matters
More than just a trend, sustainability is a way of life for many Angelenos. Avocado trees require less water compared to some other crops, making them a more sustainable choice in the arid Californian climate. Supporting local avocado farmers means reduced transportation emissions too.
Versatility
Avocado toast can be a breakfast, a snack, or even lunch. Pair it with a sunny-side-up egg for breakfast, or with some roasted veggies for lunch. Its adaptability to any meal has made it a staple in the diet of many Angelenos.
Top Restaurants in Los Angeles for Avocado Toast
Sqirl
Address: 720 N Virgil Ave #4, Los Angeles, CA 90029
Located in Silver Lake, Sqirl is a popular café known for its creative and delicious breakfast dishes. Their avocado toast is made with thick slices of brioche bread, mashed avocado, and a variety of toppings such as pickled carrots, radishes, and a poached egg. The café also offers a range of other tasty dishes, including their famous ricotta toast and sorrel pesto rice bowl.
Zinc Café
Address: 580 Mateo St Los Angeles, CA 90013 (Downtown LA Location)
With locations in both downtown LA and Venice, Zinc Café is a cozy and charming spot that serves up a variety of healthy and delicious dishes. Their avocado toast is made with thick slices of multigrain bread, mashed avocado, and a sprinkle of sea salt and black pepper. The café also offers a range of other tasty dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and pastries.
The Butcher's Daughter
Address: 1205 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291
Located in Venice, The Butcher's Daughter is a vegetarian café that offers a range of healthy and delicious dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their avocado toast is made with thick slices of sourdough bread, mashed avocado, and a sprinkle of chili flakes. The cafe also offers a range of other tasty dishes, including smoothie bowls, salads, and sandwiches.
A Simple Avocado and Toast Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 slices of your preferred bread (whole grain, sourdough, multigrain, etc.)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes, lemon juice, or any topping of your choice
Instructions:
- Toast the Bread: Place the bread slices in a toaster or on a grill pan until they reach your desired level of crispiness.
- Prepare the Avocado: While the bread is toasting, slice the avocado in half and remove the pit. Use a spoon to scoop out the avocado flesh into a bowl.
- Mash & Season: Use a fork to mash the avocado to your preferred consistency. Season with salt and pepper. For a zesty twist, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
- Assemble & Serve: Spread the mashed avocado generously onto the toasted bread slices. If you like, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or your favorite toppings for an added kick.
- Enjoy your delicious and nutritious avocado toast!
Note:
Feel free to get creative! Top with sliced tomatoes, radishes, a poached egg, or feta cheese for variation.
Conclusion
Avocado toast is more than just a food trend in L.A.; it's a reflection of the city's values, lifestyle, and creativity. Whether you’re an Angeleno or just visiting, a slice of avocado toast is a slice of Los Angeles culture. And once you've had a bite, it's easy to see why it's so loved.
Main Photo by Gaby Yerden
