Steamed Pears

Steamed Pears Recipe

Region / culture: Asia, USA | Servings: 4

Introduction

Steamed pears are a delicious and healthy dessert option that is perfect for those looking for a light and refreshing treat. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of Asian pears with the rich flavor of honey and Chinese honey dates, creating a delightful dish that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

Steamed pears have been a popular dish in Chinese cuisine for centuries. The combination of pears, honey, and Chinese honey dates is believed to have originated in ancient China, where it was often served as a dessert during special occasions and celebrations.

Ingredients

4 asian pears
8 tsp (just under 3 tbsp) of honey
4 dried Chinese dates, softened in cold water, slitted, and pits removed

How to prepare

Wash the pears and pat them dry with paper towels.
Cut off the top of the pears and set it aside (this will be used as the lid).
Remove the core. If desired, trim a small slice from the bottom of the pear to ensure it stands upright while steaming.
Spoon 2 tsp of honey into each pear.
Add 1 Chinese honey date and place the top back on the pear.
Steam the pears for 30 minutes, or until they are tender. Serve warm.

Variations

Try adding a sprinkle of ground ginger or a splash of lemon juice to the honey mixture for a different flavor profile.
For a savory twist, try stuffing the pears with a mixture of goat cheese and walnuts before steaming.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to choose ripe Asian pears for this recipe, as they will be sweeter and more flavorful.

- If you don't have Chinese honey dates, you can substitute regular dates or dried apricots.

- Be sure to check the pears periodically while steaming to ensure they do not overcook and become mushy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the steamed pears warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.

- Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the pears helps to retain their natural sweetness and juiciness, while also allowing the flavors of the honey and Chinese honey dates to infuse into the fruit.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find Asian pears, you can use Bosc or Anjou pears as a substitute.

- Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used in place of honey.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the pears up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to steam.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the steamed pears in individual bowls, drizzled with any remaining honey mixture and garnished with fresh mint leaves.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the steamed pears with a glass of Moscato or Riesling for a perfect dessert pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover steamed pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

140

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 36g

- Dietary Fiber: 6g

- Sugars: 24g

Fats

- Total Fat: 0g

- Saturated Fat: 0g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 1g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 8% DV

- Potassium: 6% DV

- Vitamin K: 4% DV

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free.

Summary

This recipe is a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, while being low in fat and calories.

Summary

Steamed pears are a simple and elegant dessert option that is perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a delicious and healthy treat that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the natural sweetness of the pears, combined with the rich flavors of honey and Chinese honey dates, in this delightful dish.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for steamed pears. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl learning how to cook from my own grandmother. She was a wonderful cook who always seemed to have a new recipe up her sleeve, and I loved spending time in her kitchen, watching and learning from her.

One day, as I was helping her prepare dinner, she pulled out a tattered old recipe card from her collection and told me that we were going to make steamed pears for dessert. I had never heard of such a thing before, but I was eager to learn. As she explained the recipe to me, I could see the twinkle in her eyes and I knew that this was going to be something special.

We started by peeling and coring the pears, being careful to keep them whole. My grandmother showed me how to carefully scoop out the seeds without breaking the fruit. She then placed the pears in a large pot and poured in some water, sugar, and a few spices. The scent of cinnamon and cloves filled the air as the pears simmered on the stove, slowly softening and soaking up all the delicious flavors.

As we waited for the pears to steam, my grandmother told me the story of how she had learned this recipe herself. She explained that she had first tasted steamed pears at a dinner party many years ago, and had been so taken with the dish that she begged the host for the recipe. The host, a kind elderly woman with a twinkle in her eye, had shared the recipe with her and my grandmother had been making it ever since.

I could see the fond memories in my grandmother's eyes as she recounted this story, and I felt a sense of connection to her as we cooked together. She told me that cooking was not just about following a recipe, but about creating memories and sharing stories with loved ones. I knew then that this recipe for steamed pears would always hold a special place in my heart.

Finally, the pears were done steaming and my grandmother carefully removed them from the pot. They were soft and fragrant, with a beautiful golden color. She plated them up and drizzled them with a sweet syrup made from the cooking liquid. As we sat down to enjoy our dessert, I took my first bite of the steamed pear and my taste buds were overwhelmed with the delicious flavors.

The pears were tender and juicy, with a hint of spice and sweetness that made my mouth water. I could see the joy on my grandmother's face as she watched me savor every bite, knowing that she had passed down a beloved recipe to me. I felt a sense of pride and gratitude for the time we had spent together in the kitchen, learning and cooking side by side.

As I grew older and started my own family, I continued to make steamed pears for them, sharing the recipe and the story behind it with my own children. They loved the dessert just as much as I did, and I could see the same excitement in their eyes that I had felt when I first learned to make it.

Now, as I look back on that moment in my grandmother's kitchen, I realize that the recipe for steamed pears is more than just a dish - it is a piece of my family's history, a connection to the past, and a way to create memories for generations to come. I am grateful to my grandmother for passing down this recipe to me, and I will cherish it always.