Hello everyone, I’m Makana, a fruit blogger, and today I’d like to introduce you to the world of Japanese pears.
As a child, I was frail and had a poor appetite. However, after becoming an adult, my encounter with organic foods opened my eyes to the wonders of food. Particularly, my discovery of fruits significantly changed my life.
My family home is in Chiba Prefecture, where there are nearby orchards for pear picking. Living in such an environment inspired me to start a blog to share the allure of fruits with many people. I have a special affection for Japanese pears.
Pears have been cherished by Japanese people since the Yayoi period. The discovery of pear seeds at the Toro archaeological site attests to their deep history. Even the Nihon Shoki mentions the promotion of pear cultivation alongside mulberry and chestnut.
Today, I’ll delve into the fascinating world of Japanese pears, discussing the characteristics of different varieties and how to choose them, while sharing my personal experiences. Pears are broadly classified into three categories: Japanese pears (nashi), European pears, and Chinese pears, each with its own appealing features. Japanese nashi are particularly known for their unique crisp texture, sometimes referred to as “sand pears” overseas.
By reading this article, I hope you’ll gain a deeper understanding of pears and enjoy them even more deliciously. Now, let’s embark on a journey into the captivating world of pears!
Basic Knowledge of Japanese Pears
Are you familiar with the three classifications of pears: Japanese, European, and Chinese? Each has its own fascinating characteristics.
Japanese pears, most familiar to us Japanese, are further divided into red and green varieties. Red pears have brownish skin, with “Kosui” and “Hosui” being representative varieties. Green pears have yellowish-green skin, with “Nijisseiki” being famous. Both are characterized by their crisp texture.
European pears have a gourd-like shape, with “La France” and “Le Lectier” being representative varieties. They’re known for their smooth, buttery texture and rich aroma.
Chinese pears resemble European pears in shape but are closer to Japanese pears in texture and taste. The “Yali” variety is famous and is typically ripened after harvest.
Major Varieties and Their Characteristics
Red Pear Varieties
- Kosui: In season from early July to early September, it has soft, juicy flesh. It’s particularly high in juice content and sugar levels. Main production areas include Chiba, Ibaraki, and Fukushima prefectures.
- Hosui: Harvested from late August to early October, it’s larger than Kosui with a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. It’s also very juicy and one of my favorite varieties.
- Nansui: In season from late September to early October, mainly produced in Nagano Prefecture. It has little acidity and strong sweetness, with an average sugar content of 15 degrees. It’s a popular high-grade variety often used for gifts.
- Niitaka: A large variety in season from late October to early November. It can grow as large as a softball and is characterized by its fragrant, refined sweetness. Main production areas are Kumamoto and Chiba prefectures.
Green Pear Varieties
- Nijisseiki: The representative green pear variety, in season from early to late September. It has a refined sweetness with moderate acidity and juicy flesh. Main production areas are Tottori and Nagano prefectures.
- Gold Nijisseiki: A mutation of Nijisseiki, sweeter than its parent variety and in season in mid-September. It’s mainly cultivated in Tottori and Shimane prefectures.
- Kikumizu: Created by crossing “Taihaku” and “Nijisseiki”, it’s in season from late August to mid-September. It’s characterized by a good balance of strong sweetness and acidity and is cultivated in Oita and Ehime prefectures.
How to Find Delicious Pears
Selection Tips
The most important aspect of choosing pears is first observing their shape. Select pears that are round and symmetrical, with color extending to the bottom. I particularly look for pears with broad shoulders and a plump bottom.
Weight is the next crucial factor. Among pears of the same size, heavier ones tend to be juicier and more delicious. Choose pears that feel substantial when held.
The skin condition is also important. For red pears, the rough texture (brown spots) decreases as they ripen, becoming smooth when ready to eat. Choose smooth-skinned pears for immediate consumption and slightly rough-skinned ones for taking home as souvenirs.
Storage Methods and Duration
The key to storing pears is preventing moisture evaporation. I wrap each pear in newspaper or kitchen paper, place them in a plastic bag, and store them in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator. Storing them with the stem facing downward helps them last longer.
Interestingly, pears “breathe” like humans, using stored sugars and acids in the process. Refrigeration slows this respiration, preventing quality deterioration.
Nutritional Value and Health Benefits
Pears are 90% water and contain aspartic acid, which is effective for fatigue recovery. Sorbitol has cough-suppressing and fever-reducing effects, while potassium is good for high blood pressure and helps expel salt from the body.
Particularly interesting is the digestive enzyme protease found in pears. It aids in protein digestion and tenderizes meat, making pears an ideal after-dinner dessert.
However, as pears have a cooling effect on the body, pregnant women, those prone to feeling cold, and those susceptible to diarrhea should consume them in moderation.
Recommendation for Pear Picking
To fully appreciate the charm of pears, I recommend pear picking. In my area, there are farms where you can pick strawberries in greenhouses and pears in orchards. Seeing pears growing on trees allows you to learn more about their growth process and cultivation methods.
Conclusion
I hope I’ve been able to convey the profound charm of pears to you all.
Loved by Japanese people since the Yayoi period, pears have evolved over time through selective breeding. Both red and green pears have their own unique characteristics and seasonal flavors. Personally, I have a deep affection for pears among all fruits.
If you’re unsure which variety to choose, start with the standard Kosui or Hosui. Eventually, try comparing different varieties. Enjoying the differences between varieties is part of the appeal of pears.
If there’s a pear orchard nearby, I encourage you to experience pear picking. Seeing pears on trees and talking with farmers will deepen your understanding of pears. Through interactions with local orchards and farmers, I’ve learned a great deal.
Lastly, when selecting pears, remember to check for good shape and weight. When storing, focus on preventing moisture evaporation.
As we approach autumn, various pear varieties will become available. I hope you’ll use the knowledge gained from this article to appreciate pears more deeply.
Until next time, take care!
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