Pears are one of the world's favorite fruits and have been so for thousands of years. Like apples, to which they are related, pears come in thousands of varieties, of which only a small fraction are sold in the UK. Their fine, slightly granular flesh is much more fragile than apples and, unlike most fruit, they improve in flavour and texture after they're picked.

FLAVOUR

The light colour flesh of the pear is juicy, sweet and usually mild, while its texture is soft and buttery.

SIZE AND WEIGHT

A medium size pears weighs about 150-170 grams however this weight will vary depending on the quality of the pear.

SHAPE

In general pears are elongated being narrow at the stem end and broader at the opposite end.

SKIN COLOUR CHARACTERISTIC

The skin is slightly rough while a light pale green in colour, and can be yellowish when ripe.

FLESH COLOUR AND CHARACTERISTIC

The centre is a core which encloses our seeds. The pears can range from green, yellow to red. The flesh colour is normally white to creamy-white.

PICKING PERIOD

Mainly in season from September through to January.

AVAILABILITY

Pears are available all year round.

DISTINCTIVE FEATURES

Pears are excellent source of water-soluble fiber. They contain vitamins A, B1, B2, C, E, folate and niacin. It is also rich in copper, phosphorus and potassium, with lesser amounts of calcium, chlorine, iron, magnesium, sodium and sulfur.

STORAGE

Pears may be stored at room temperature until ripe. Pears are ripe when the flesh around the stem gives to gentle pressure. Ripe pears are optimally stored refrigerated, uncovered in a single layer, where they have a shelf life of 2 to 3 days.

HOW TO ENJOY THEM

Pears are consumed fresh, canned, as juice, and dried. The juice can also be used in jellies and jams, usually in combination with other fruits or berries Combine pears with mustard greens, watercress, leeks and walnuts for a delicious salad. Serve pears with goat or bleu cheese for a delightful dessert. Add chopped pears, grated ginger and honey to millet porridge for a pungently sweet breakfast treat. Core pears, and poach in apple juice or wine.