Stoofpeertjes
Stoofpeertjes Recipe - Delicious Vegetarian Dish from Netherlands
Introduction
Stoofpeertjes, also known as stewed pears, is a traditional Dutch dish that is typically served as a side dish or dessert. This dish is made by simmering small stewing pears in a flavorful mixture of red wine, black currant liqueur, and spices until they are tender and infused with delicious flavors.
History
Stoofpeertjes has been a popular dish in the Netherlands for centuries, with recipes dating back to the 17th century. Originally, this dish was made as a way to preserve pears for the winter months when fresh fruit was scarce. Over time, the recipe evolved to include ingredients like red wine and spices, adding depth and complexity to the dish.
Ingredients
- 1 kg small stewing pears
- 3 cloves
- 1 piece of fresh lemon rind
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 50 g brown sugar
- 200 ml red wine
- 100 ml black currant liqueur
How to prepare
- Peel the pears and leave them whole.
- Pierce the lemon rind with the cloves.
- In a large pan, combine the pears, lemon zest, cinnamon sticks, and sugar. Pour in the red wine and liqueur.
- Add enough water to just cover the pears.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat. Let the pears simmer, covered, for 2.5 hours or until they become tender.
- To serve, carefully lift the pears out of the pan and place them on a plate. Serve with cinnamon ice cream and thick whipped cream.
Variations
- Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy twist.
- Substitute the black currant liqueur with raspberry or cherry liqueur for a different flavor profile.
- Top the pears with chopped nuts or granola for added texture.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Choose small stewing pears that are firm and ripe for the best results.
- Be sure to peel the pears before cooking to ensure a smooth texture.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dish by adding more or less sugar to taste.
- For a more intense flavor, let the pears marinate in the cooking liquid overnight before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Stoofpeertjes can be served as a side dish with roasted meats or as a dessert with ice cream or whipped cream.
Cooking Techniques
Stoofpeertjes are traditionally simmered on the stovetop, but they can also be made in a slow cooker or pressure cooker for convenience.
Ingredient Substitutions
If black currant liqueur is not available, you can substitute it with another fruit liqueur or red wine.
Make Ahead Tips
Stoofpeertjes can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Stoofpeertjes in individual bowls or on a platter garnished with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Pairing Recommendations
Stoofpeertjes pair well with roasted pork, duck, or game meats. They also complement cheese plates and charcuterie boards.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Stoofpeertjes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Stoofpeertjes contains approximately 150 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Stoofpeertjes contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Stoofpeertjes contains approximately 1 gram of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Stoofpeertjes contains negligible amounts of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Stoofpeertjes are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.
Alergens
Stoofpeertjes may contain sulfites from the red wine and black currant liqueur.
Summary
Stoofpeertjes are a delicious and nutritious dish that is low in fat and calories. They are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.
Summary
Stoofpeertjes is a classic Dutch dish that is perfect for the fall and winter months. With its warm spices and rich flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy it as a side dish or dessert for a taste of traditional Dutch cuisine.
How did I get this recipe?
I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Stoofpeertjes. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the countryside of the Netherlands. My grandmother, who was an excellent cook herself, had received the recipe from a dear friend who had learned it from her own grandmother.
The recipe for Stoofpeertjes, which translates to stewed pears, was a traditional Dutch dish that was often served during the fall and winter months. The sweet and tangy flavor of the pears, combined with the warm spices and rich syrup, made it a perfect dessert for cold evenings.
I watched intently as my grandmother prepared the dish, taking notes on the ingredients and techniques she used. She explained to me the importance of using ripe but firm pears, as they would hold their shape during the cooking process. She also stressed the need for patience, as the pears needed to simmer slowly in the syrup to absorb all the flavors.
As the pears stewed on the stove, the sweet aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and sugar filled the kitchen. I couldn't wait to try the finished dish, and when my grandmother finally served it up in a small bowl with a dollop of whipped cream on top, I knew I had found a new favorite dessert.
Over the years, I have made Stoofpeertjes countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my own tastes. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition of this delicious Dutch dish.
One of my fondest memories of making Stoofpeertjes was when my own daughter, Anneke, was just a little girl. She would stand by my side in the kitchen, helping me peel and core the pears, her tiny hands eager to be a part of the cooking process. Together, we would simmer the pears in the syrup, the sweet aroma filling our home and creating a sense of warmth and comfort.
As Anneke grew older, she began to make Stoofpeertjes on her own, using the recipe that had been passed down through generations. It was a way for her to stay connected to her roots and to honor the traditions of our family.
Now, as I sit in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the familiar scents of cinnamon and cloves, I can't help but feel grateful for the recipe for Stoofpeertjes that has been a part of my life for so long. It is a reminder of the love and care that went into each dish, and the memories that have been created around the table.
I hope that one day, my daughter will pass down the recipe for Stoofpeertjes to her own children, continuing the tradition and keeping our family history alive through the art of cooking. And as I take a bite of the warm, stewed pears, I am filled with a sense of joy and contentment, knowing that the simple act of preparing a meal can bring so much happiness and connection to those we love.
Categories
| Brown Sugar Recipes | Dutch Desserts | Dutch Recipes | Dutch Vegetarian | Pear Recipes | Red Wine Recipes |