Asian Pears Are What’s in the Market
What is it?
Tasting like a delicate mix of pear, apple, and jicama with a touch of spicy and floral flavors, this delicious, crunchy fruit should not be missed! I found this gem hiding among the apples at the farmers’ market this week and couldn’t resist buying a few. The Asian pear with its tan and rough skin looks a bit like a cross between an apple and a pear. Also called apple pears, Chinese pears, Japanese pears, and Taiwanese pears, these fruit are native to East Asia, but are also grown in India, Australia, New Zealand and the US. They are harvested in the fall, so now is your chance to try them!
Buying and caring for it
When choosing an Asian pear, pick one with no soft brown spots or wrinkles. They should be firm to the touch. The fruit bruises easily, so be gentle. The fruit can be stored for several weeks in a cold, dry place. Cut Asian pears do not brown (oxidize) very quickly, so no need to worry – just enjoy!
Why eat it?
Asian pears are a good source of fiber, with 5-10 grams of fiber depending on the size of the fruit. Much of the fruit’s fiber is found in the skin, so EAT THE SKIN! A diet high in fiber improves gut health and can lower your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and some types of cancer. Â
Tasty Goodness!
Asian pears have a higher water content than apples, so they don’t hold up well when they are baked. They also have a delicate flavor which gets lost when cooked, however they are wonderful when eaten fresh or incorporated as part of a sauce, marinade, or dressing.Â
- Chop them up and add them to your favorite vegetable or grain salad with a vinaigrette.
- Slice and add to a slaw.
- Toss a chopped Asian pear into a blender or food processor with 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar, 1/3 cup vegetable oil, 2 tsp sesame oil, salt and pepper to taste and puree until smooth for a tasty salad dressing.
- If you make barbecue sauce or sweet and sour sauce from scratch, puree and add as your sweet element.
- Chop fine and add to a salsa for some great crunch and fruity notes.
- Chop and add to oatmeal.
