The F.N. Sharp Guide to Choosing, Cutting and Storing Pears – Plus Delicious Recipes to Try!
Before we get into all of our pear-cutting tips and practice recipe, let’s go over some FAQs:
What Exactly is a Pear?
So, what's the deal with pears? Well, pears are a type of fruit that belongs to the Rosaceae family, just like their apple cousins. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, from the classic bell-shaped Bartlett pear to the round and chubby Comice pear. Pears are known for their sweet and slightly grainy texture, making them a delightful snack or addition to both sweet and savory dishes.
What Are the Different Types of Pears?
Pears come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and each offers its own flavor profile:
Bartlett Pears: Ah, the classic Bartlett pear - sweet, juicy, and oh so delicious. This pear is like the popular kid in school - everyone knows and loves it. With its bell shape and sweet flavor, it's a crowd-pleaser for sure. To enjoy this beauty, simply wash it, give it a good wipe, and take a big, juicy bite. No need to overcomplicate things here!
Anjou Pears: A bit more understated but still delicious, the subtle sweetness and juicy texture of the Anjou pear make it a top contender in the pear world. Whether you're munching on a red Anjou or a green Anjou, the process is the same. Just wash, slice, and enjoy! These pears are perfect for snacking or adding to salads for a sweet twist.
Bosc Pears: This pear is a bit rough around the edges with its brown skin and firm flesh, but don't let that fool you - it's a real pear-sonality powerhouse. The Bosc pear is a bit firmer than its counterparts, making it perfect for baking or poaching. Slice it up and add it to your favorite dessert for a sweet and slightly spicy flavor profile.
Comice Pears: Often called the "Christmas pear" for its festive appearance and buttery smooth texture, Comice pears are known for their buttery texture and sweet flavor – they are a true delight! Simply wash, slice, and indulge in this decadent treat. (Pro tip: pair it with some cheese for a fancy snack!)
Forelle Pears: With their small size and sweet flavor, Forelle pears are perfect for snacking. Just wash them, pop them in your mouth, and enjoy the burst of juiciness with every bite. (They're like nature's candy!)
Seckel Pears: Don't let their small size fool you - Seckel pears pack a flavorful punch. These tiny pears are perfect for eating whole as a snack or slicing up to add to salads for a touch of sweetness.
Prickly Pear (Not Actually a Pear!): Now, let's clear up any confusion - prickly pear is not a type of pear at all. It's actually the fruit that grows on a cactus! To enjoy this unique fruit, peel off the skin (watch out for those prickles!) and enjoy the sweet and slightly tangy flesh inside.
What Do Pears Taste Like?
When it comes to taste, pears can be divided into two camps: sweet and tart. Sweet pears like Bartlett and Anjou are like a sugary treat, while tart pears like Bosc and Seckel have a more tangy flavor profile. It all depends on your taste buds and what you're in the mood for!
What Are Pears Good For?
Aside from being a tasty treat, pears are actually packed with nutrients. They are a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Fiber is essential for good digestion, while vitamin C helps boost your immune system. Plus, the antioxidants in pears can help reduce inflammation in the body. So, go ahead and indulge in that pear – it's good for you!
When Are Pears in Season?
When is the pear-fect time to enjoy pears? Pears are typically in season from late summer to early fall, depending on the variety. This is when you'll find the juiciest and most flavorful pears at your local market. Keep an eye out for ripe pears with a slight give near the stem – that's when you know they're ready to eat!
How to Pick the Perfect Pear
First things first, when picking pears, give them a gentle squeeze near the stem. If it yields slightly, it's ripe and ready to eat. If it's as hard as a rock, it needs some time to ripen. Remember, a pear's skin color may vary depending on the variety, so don't judge a pear by its cover!
How to Ripen Pears
Got a hankering for a ripe pear but all you've got are rock-hard ones? Place them in a paper bag with a banana or apple (they release ethylene gas, a natural ripening agent) and watch the magic happen. In a day or two, you'll have perfectly ripe pears ready to devour!
What to Do With Pears
Now that you've got your hands on some juicy pears, what should you do with them? The possibilities are endless! You can slice them up and add them to a salad for a sweet crunch, poach them in red wine for a fancy dessert, or simply enjoy them as a snack with a dollop of creamy cheese. Pears also make a delicious addition to baked goods like pies, tarts, and muffins. Get creative and experiment with different pear recipes – the perfect dish is just waiting to be discovered!
How to Eat Pears
First things first, let's answer another frequently asked question - can you eat the skin? Yes, you can absolutely eat the skin of a pear! It's where all the fiber and nutrients hang out, so why miss out on the good stuff? (Plus, it's less work for you, so win-win!)
Pears are not only delicious but also versatile. Let's explore some fun and quirky ways to eat and enjoy pears!
Raw and Juicy: One of the simplest ways to enjoy a pear is by biting into it raw. The juicy, sweet flesh of a ripe pear is a true delight for your taste buds. Just make sure to give it a good wash before diving in!
Perfect Pearing: Who says pears have to fly solo? Pairing pears with cheese, such as brie or gorgonzola, is a match made in foodie heaven. The creamy cheese complements the sweetness of the pear, creating a flavor explosion in your mouth!
Baked Bliss: Feeling a bit fancy? Try baking your pears for a warm and comforting treat. Simply core the pear, fill it with a mixture of oats, nuts, and honey, and bake until tender. Top it off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent dessert!
Perfectly Pickled: If you're feeling adventurous, why not try pickling your pears? Pickled pears make a great addition to salads, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards. The tangy-sweet flavor will have your taste buds doing a happy dance!
Sipping Smoothie: Looking for a refreshing way to start your day? Blend up a pear smoothie! Simply combine a ripe pear with some yogurt, honey, and a splash of almond milk for a creamy and nutritious treat. It's a pear-fect way to get your morning started!
Grilled Goodness: Fire up the grill and throw some pear slices on for a caramelized treat. Grilled pears are a delicious addition to salads, sandwiches, or even as a topping for burgers. The smoky flavor adds a whole new dimension to this versatile fruit!
Whether you prefer your pears raw and juicy or baked to perfection, there are endless ways to enjoy this delicious fruit. Get creative in the kitchen and let your imagination run wild!
Can I Feed Pears to My Pets?
Now, let's address the elephant in the room (or should I say, the bearded dragon?): Can you feed pears to your beloved pets? The answer varies depending on the animal: Dogs: Yes, dogs can enjoy pears as an occasional treat, but make sure to remove the seeds first.
Cats: Your feline friends can eat pears in small amounts, but many are not fans of this fruit.
Bunnies and Guinea Pigs: These small critters can nibble on pears, but remember to remove the seeds and limit the quantity.
Horses: These beauties can munch on pears as a tasty snack, but be mindful of the seeds.
Bearded Dragons: These reptiles can have a bite of pear as part of their varied diet, but moderation is key.
Chickens, Ducks, and Other Birds: Yes, all types of birds can peck at pears, but make sure to cut them into small pieces to prevent choking.
Deer: If you have deer visitors in your yard, they may enjoy pears as a natural treat, but be cautious of overfeeding.
Whether you're snacking on a juicy Bartlett or sharing a slice with your furry friend, pears are a versatile and delicious fruit for all to enjoy!
How to Cut a Pear
Ready to cut up those pears? First, give them a nice wash and pat dry. Next, get a small cutting board ready by placing a folded, damp paper towel underneath to help stabilize, if needed. Then, grab your knife of choice (the versatile F.N. Sharp Utility Knife or the handy little paring knife both make great options) and follow along with the video above and/or the instructions below.
How to Core a Pear: There are a couple of different ways to core a pear. You can cut the pear in half lengthwise, then use the tip of the paring knife to carve out the core in a small circle from each half, or you can cut it as you go, as noted in the steps below for slicing pears into wedges. If you need to core a pear without cutting it in half, you can simply slice off the bottom of the pear, then use the tip of the knife, an apple corer, or a melon baller to scoop out the core.
How to Slice a Pear into Wedges: Start by cutting the pear in half lengthwise, then cut each half in half again to create quarters. Next, stand one of the quarters upright and slice down and curve around the core to remove it. Repeat for each quarter, then slice each quarter lengthwise to create three wedges.
How to Cut a Pear Into Slices: Start by cutting it in half lengthwise and removing the core. Then, place the halves flat-side down on the cutting board and cut lengthwise into vertical slices. To cut a pear into half-moon slices, begin by cutting the pear in half, removing the core, then cut each half into slices widthwise from one end to the other.
How to Dice a Pear: Begin by slicing the pear in half lengthwise from the stem to the base. Remove the core from each half, then place the halves flat-side down on the cutting board and cut each into vertical slices, about ¼ to ½ inch thick, depending on how small you want the dice. Next, stack a few slices and cut lengthwise into uniform strips. Rotate the strips 90 degrees and cut across to create even cubes, and repeat with the remaining pear pieces.
How to Create Decorative Cuts With Pears: If you want to level up your presentation game or impress your friends and family, then give this decorative cut a try! Start by cutting the pear in half lengthwise. Lay one of the halves cut side down on the cutting board and use the paring knife to make four angled wedge cuts into the top of each half, as shown in the video linked above. Next, gently push the wedges forward towards the narrow side of the pear half to create this cool-looking shape.
How to Store Pears
Whole, unripened pears can be stored at room temperature on the kitchen counter. Once your pears are ripe and ready to eat, store them in the fridge to keep them fresh for longer. If you want to slow down the ripening process, pop them in the fridge when they're at the perfect ripeness. Just remember, pears are like fine wine – they get better with age!
If you've sliced and diced your pears but can't finish them all in one go, fear not! Sprinkle some lemon juice on the cut-up pears to prevent browning, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They'll stay fresh and delicious for a few days (if you can resist eating them all at once).
If you’re wondering if you can freeze pears, the answer is absolutely! If you find yourself with an abundance of pears or want to save some for later, freezing is the way to go. Simply peel, core, and slice the pears, then toss them in a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning. Pop them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and voilà - frozen pears for smoothies, pies, or snacking!
How to Cook Pears
Pears are a versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. From baking to grilling, there are endless possibilities when it comes to cooking pears. But have you ever tried poaching them? If not, you're in for a treat! Let's dive into the different ways you can cook pears and learn how to poach them to perfection.
Baking Pears – A Sweet Symphony: One popular way to cook pears is by baking them. Whether you're making a classic pear tart or a rustic pear crumble, baking pears brings out their natural juiciness and creates a mouthwatering dessert. Plus, your kitchen will smell like a cozy bakery, which is always a win in our book!
Grilled Pears – Adding a Charred Twist: Looking to add a smoky flavor to your pears? Try grilling them! Grilled pears are a fantastic addition to salads, sandwiches, or even as a side dish. The slight char from the grill adds a depth of flavor that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance.
Poaching Pears – The Gentle Art of Cooking: Now, let's talk about the star of the show: poached pears. To poach pears, you'll gently simmer them in a mixture of water, sugar, and spices until they're tender and infused with flavor. The result? A delicate and elegant dessert that will impress your guests (or just yourself, no judgment here).
Get Creative: Don't be afraid to get creative with your pear cooking adventures. Whether you're caramelizing them on the stovetop, blending them into a smoothie, or even pickling them for a tangy twist, pears are a versatile fruit that can elevate any dish. So go ahead, let your culinary imagination run wild!
Practice Your Pear-Cutting Skills With These F.N. Sharp Recipes!
Are you ready to pair those pear-cutting skills with some delicious recipes? Here are a few delicious recipes to help you master the art of preparing those pears!
Savory Pear Galette
Grab the F.N. Sharp Utility Knife and slice up some Bosc pears and yellow onions for this savory pear galette recipe! With this recipe, sharp cheddar cheese is incorporated into the homemade flaky butter crust, then it’s topped with thinly sliced pears, thinly sliced yellow onion, crumbled bleu cheese, and fresh thyme to create a delicious galette that perfectly pairs the sweet and the savory!
Korean Beef Bulgogi Bowl
Dice up some Asian or Bosc pears for this delicious Korean-style barbecue beef bowl recipe! With this recipe, diced pear, thinly sliced scallion whites and roughly chopped scallion greens, matchstick radishes, diced fresh ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and Asian spices all come together to create this Korean Beef Bulgogi Bowl made with a little extra sauce to tie it all together at the end!
Italian Candied Fruit
Inspired by Northern Italy’s classic condiment called “mostarda di frutta”, this Italian candied fruit recipe combines sliced apple, kiwi, pear, plum, tangerine, some whole raspberries, and a freshly squeezed lemon with fine sugar, Sauvignon Blanc, mustard powder, mustard seed, and a little bit of water to create some Italian candied fruit that makes a delicious topping for desserts and even meats!
Poach Pear Gingerbread
Instead of a partridge in a pear tree, how about some pears in a gingerbread? Peel up some Bosc pears and learn how to poach them with this whimsical dessert bread recipe! Perfectly poached pears, freshly grated ginger, freshly squeezed lemon juice, organic honey, dry vermouth, Greek yogurt, and a gamut of sugar and spices all come together to create this recipe for poached pear gingerbread!
I got these for my husband and he LOVED them! Starting with the box - so well made and packaged - beautifully designed and balanced handle - everything is perfect about the knife. Great job F N Sharp!
Functional, great capacity, and beautifully made. We tossed our old knife block out, but included the old knives in with the new, as there is ample room.
