Red & Russeted & Green Pear Medley
As the summer comes to an end, Clubs of America Fruit of the Month Club is featuring a Pear Medley package.
Basic Pear Characteristics
Red pears are a variety of pear that, as the name suggests, have a red or reddish skin. These pears can vary in shade from light pink to deep crimson. The flesh of red pears is typically white or creamy and can be sweet and juicy. Some popular red pear varieties include Red Bartlett, Red Anjou, and Starkrimson.
Russeting is a term used to describe a rough, brownish or bronze-like skin texture that can develop on certain pear varieties. Russeted pears often have a more textured and gritty skin compared to smooth-skinned pears. This texture is due to tiny, corky, and rough patches on the pear’s skin. Despite the unconventional appearance, russeted pears are prized for their unique flavor and sweetness.
Green pears, also known as yellow pears or green-skinned pears, are a type of pear with green-colored skin. These pears come in various shapes and sizes, and they are widely cultivated and enjoyed around the world. Here are some common varieties and characteristics of green pears.
Bartlett Pear (Williams Pear)
One of the most popular varieties of green pears is the Bartlett pear, known as Williams pear in some regions.
Anjou Pear
Anjou pears are another well-known variety of green pear. They have a slightly squat, egg-like shape and a smooth, pale green skin.
Bosc Pear
Bosc pears are easily recognizable by their elongated, tapered shape and rough, brownish skin. While they may not be bright green, they fall under the category of green-skinned pears.
Comice Pear
Comice pears are often considered one of the sweetest and juiciest pear varieties.
Concorde Pear
Concorde pears have a distinctive long, slender shape with a green skin that can sometimes feature a slight red blush.
Nutritional Benefits
Eating pears can provide a range of health benefits due to their nutritional content. They are a good source of dietary fiber, particularly soluble fiber like pectin. The fiber, potassium, and antioxidant content in pears can contribute to heart health. Pears are relatively low in calories and high in fiber, making them a satisfying snack that can help control appetite and promote weight management. The fiber content in pears can also help stabilzie blood sugar levels. This makes them a good choice for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes.
Pears contain antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin K, as well as various phytonutrients, which can help protect cells from oxidative damage and reduce inflammation. The vitamins and antioxidants in pears can contrubute to healthy skin by promoting collagen production. This reduces signs of aging.
Pears have a high water content, which can help keep you hydrated, especially in hot weather or after physical activity.
Which is Better?
Both red and russeted pears can be delicious and offer a delightful alternative to the more common green or yellow-skinned pears. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference and their intended use in recipes. Some people prefer the sweet, juicy flesh of red pears, while others appreciate the rustic charm and distinctive flavor of russeted pears.
Green pears are versatile fruits that can be enjoyed in various ways. They can be eaten fresh as a healthy snack, sliced and added to salads, used in desserts like pies and crisps, or paired with cheese for a delightful appetizer. The choice of green pear variety may depend on personal taste preferences and intended culinary use. Eating whole pears is generally recommended over fruit juices or canned pear products, as whole pears provide the full spectrum of nutrients and fiber.
Cooking ideas with Pears
Pears can be a versatile and delicious addition to various dishes, both sweet and savory. When cooking with pears, choose pears that are ripe but still firm for dishes where you want the pear to hold its shape. Use fully ripe pears for recipes where you want them to be soft and sweet. Experiment with different pear varieties to discover unique flavor profiles and textures that complement your favorite recipes.
Sweet pear dishes include:
Pear Pie or Tart, Poached Pears, Pear Crisp or Crumble, Pear Muffins or Pancakes, Pear Sorbet and Pear Preserves or Jam.
Savory pear dishes include:
Pear and Cheese Plate, Pear Salad, Pear Salsa, Pear and Goat Cheese Pizza, Stuffed Pears, Pear Chutney, Pear Soup, Pear and Prosciutto Appetizer.
