It’s a millennial’s worst nightmare: The U.S. may soon be without an adequate supply of avocados. On February 12, the U.S. government suspended imports of avocados from Mexico after safety inspectors from the U.S. were verbally threatened. (Not great timing for the Avocados from Mexico commercial that ran during the Super Bowl.)
You might be thinking, “That’s okay! We can just use avocados from California.” Unfortunately, avocados aren’t in season yet in the Golden State, and the sudden stop of Mexican imports may leave grocery stores and restaurants scrambling for the star ingredient in guacamole, California rolls, and, of course avocado toast.
When Will The Shortage Hit?
You know things are serious when the TikTokers start to panic. It’ll be roughly 10 days “before you'll start to feel the pinch of the Mexican avocado ban,” warns V Spehar, host of the popular Under The Desk News TikTok account. (Spehar also runs the Los Angeles Times’s TikTok, so you know they’re legit.)
According to Spehar, any avocados already in transit or in the ripening house at the time of the ban will make their way to American avo toast enthusiasts. But since most imports are ordered two weeks ahead of time, that means the countdown clock to no-more-guac is ticking. “We are preparing to be avocado-less,” Spehar gloomily states.
When Will The Ban Be Lifted?
We don’t know. The U.S. Department of Agriculture said in a statement the ban would “remain in place for as long as necessary to ensure the appropriate actions are taken, to secure the safety of [Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service] personnel working in Mexico.”
Yeesh. In the meantime, don’t panic! Did you know that toast is an excellent method of conveyance for delicious, filling, and Instagram-worthy things other than avocado? We know, shocking but true.
With that in mind, here are some avo toast replacements to hold you over until this whole avocado shortage business blows over. Who knows, these toasty treats may become your new go-to snack.
This dreamy treat is basically like eating a cloud. A creamy, salty cloud. Bonus: It’s a fantastic base for caramelized veggies or soft roasted garlic.
It’s like an egg in a hole, but easier and better—because, well, bacon. Plus, the whole dish comes together in a single pan and takes only 15 minutes to prepare.
Sauteed cauliflower smothered in cheese and broiled until bubbly and melty—we mean, hello. Avo toast, who?
Part of avocado toast’s appeal is that it’s always camera ready. This fox-shaped toast made with fruit, whipped cream cheese, and peanut butter brings the same energy.
Smoked Salmon, Cream Cheese, and Dill Toast
You can’t lose with a classic brunch combo of smoked salmon, cream cheese, and lots of dill. Maybe throw in some capers, red onions, and tomatoes, too. (Extra points if you make your own lox!)
Keep things green with a homemade pesto spread over ricotta and finished with some spicy red pepper flakes.
Garlicky White Bean-Rosemary Toast
Anything described as garlicky is going to be good, and this creamy bean topping is no exception. Spread it on a piece of toasted baguette and your breakfast is golden.
