Paradise Pears
Estimated Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
Paradise pears are small, squat, and round in shape, similar to the size of a golf ball. The skin is firm and smooth and transforms from green to gold with red blush when ripe. The flesh is white, moist, and crisp, and there is a central core running the length of the fruit connecting to the stem that is tough, cream-colored, and dense. Inside the core, there are a few, gold to light brown, flat and slender seeds. Paradise pears are crunchy, sweet, fragrant, and juicy and stay crisp rather than softening when ripe.
Seasons/Availability
Paradise pears are available in the spring through summer in Australia.
Current Facts
Paradise pears, botanically classified as Pyrus communis, are a popular European and Australian variety that grows on trees that can reach four meters in height and are members of the Rosaceae family along with apricots and apples. Also known as Faccia Bella pears, Sugar pears, or Crystal pears, Paradise pears are categorized as a cocktail pear and are favored for their small size, crunchy texture, and sweet flavor.
Nutritional Value
Paradise pears contain dietary fiber, calcium, some antioxidants, and vitamin C.
Applications
Paradise pears are best suited for both raw and cooked applications such as simmering, poaching, and baking. Used in sweet and savory dishes, Paradise pears can be served raw on cheese plates, in leafy green salads, or as a standalone snack. They can also be simmered to make jams, preserves, and compotes or pickled in vinegar. Paradise pears can be baked into tarts, dumplings, cakes, and they can also be poached and served with pannacotta, prawn tempura, and sweet rice pudding. Paradise pears compliment blue cheese, brie, prosciutto, honey, apricot jam, almond, saffron, pork, poultry, shrimp, mulled wine, brandy syrup, lime, and citrus zest. They will keep for a couple of days at room temperature and a couple of weeks when stored in the refrigerator.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Paradise pears are also known as the Faccia Bella pear, which translates to beautiful face in Italian. The name of this pear gives a clue to its origins in Italy and refers to the colorful red blush on the skin.
Geography/History
Paradise pears originated in Sicily, Italy, and made their way to Australia, where they are now widely grown commercially. Today Paradise pears grow best in milder climates such as the Mediterranean and Australia and can be found at local farmers markets and specialty grocers.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Paradise Pears. One
is easiest, three is harder.| Delicious |
|
Spiced Pears with Gorgonzola |
| The Sugar Hit |
|
Sweet Rice Pudding & Poached Pears |
Podcasts
