Discovering a Korean Tradition
My Favorite is Korean Steamed Pears and When I first stumbled upon the recipe for Korean Steamed Pears, I was fascinated by the idea of a dessert that was both sweet and soothing. Growing up, my family had always believed in the healing power of food, but this was something new. The recipe promised not just a treat, but a comforting remedy for colds and sore throats. I could already imagine how the warmth of ginger and the sweet honey would blend with the tender pear, creating a dish that felt like a hug in a bowl.
Preparing the Perfect Pear
As I prepared to make the Korean Steamed Pears, I carefully selected the ripest Korean pear I could find. It was firm and slightly fragrant, just what I needed for this recipe. I sliced off the top, revealing the pear’s creamy interior, and gently scooped out the core. Filling it with honey, ginger, and cinnamon felt like a ritual, each step a small act of love. The jujubes, though optional, added a unique touch of sweetness and texture that made the dish feel even more special.
The Steaming Process
The steaming process was magical. As the pear sat in the steamer, its aroma filled the kitchen, mixing with the scent of ginger and cinnamon. I could hardly wait to taste it. After about an hour, the pear was beautifully soft, with a golden hue from the honey. I carefully lifted it out, its warmth radiating from the bowl. Serving it hot was a simple pleasure, a perfect comfort food to enjoy on a chilly day.
A Touch of Comfort
The Korean Steamed Pears quickly became one of my favorite desserts, especially during the winter months. They were not just delicious but also provided a gentle remedy for any sniffles or sore throats. I loved serving them with a dollop of whipped cream for a little indulgence or alongside a cup of ginger tea. Each bite was a reminder of the healing power of food and the comfort that comes from sharing a special recipe with loved ones.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Korean Steamed Pears
- Choosing the Pear: Korean pears are ideal for this recipe due to their crisp texture and unique flavor. If unavailable, Bosc pears are a good substitute.
- Honey Alternatives: For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup. Keep in mind this will slightly alter the flavor profile.
- Spice Variations: Experiment with adding a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the filling for additional warmth and depth of flavor.
- Serving Tips: For a comforting cold remedy, serve the pear hot. If you prefer a dessert, chill it in the refrigerator and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Flavor Pairings: Korean Steamed Pears pair wonderfully with green tea or ginger tea. This complements the spices and enhances the soothing qualities of the dish.
- Nut Alternatives: Pine nuts can be replaced with almonds or walnuts based on your preference or availability.
Korean Steamed Pears
4
people10
minutes1
hour150
kcal1
hour10
minutesDiscover the delightful Korean Steamed Pears, a traditional dessert that’s not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Perfect for soothing sore throats and coughs, this easy-to-make treat combines the sweetness of pears with the warmth of ginger and cinnamon. Whether served hot or chilled, it’s a comforting and nutritious option for any occasion. Try it today and experience a taste of Korean home remedies!
Ingredients
large Korean pear about 1 pound
tablespoons natural honey
teaspoon freshly grated ginger
teaspoon ground cinnamon
tablespoon pine nuts
pieces dried jujubes (optional), pitted
- Alternative Ingredients:
Bosc pear can replace Korean pear.
Maple syrup can substitute honey for a vegan option.
Ground nutmeg can be used instead of cinnamon.
Almonds or walnuts can replace pine nuts.
Directions
- Rinse the pear under cold water and pat it dry. Slice off about 1 inch from the top to create a lid. Using a small spoon, carefully scoop out the core and seeds.
- Fill the hollowed pear with honey, grated ginger, ground cinnamon, and jujubes if using. Place the sliced top back on the pear.
- Place the filled pear in a heat-resistant bowl and set it in a steamer. Steam over medium-high heat for about 1 hour.
- If serving as a remedy for colds, serve the pear hot with a small spoon. For a dessert option, you can serve it hot or chill it in the refrigerator before serving.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- small spoon
- heat-resistant bowl
- steamer
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Potassium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 25g
- Protein: 1g
- Vitamin A: 2IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 2mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQ-Korean Steamed Pears
Can I use a different type of pear?
Yes, Bosc pears are a suitable substitute for Korean pears in this recipe. They will work well for steaming and will still provide a delicious result.
Can this recipe be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the steamed pears in advance. After steaming, store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently before serving if desired.
What if I don’t have a steamer?
If you don’t have a steamer, you can use a heat-resistant bowl set over a pot of boiling water. Make sure the bowl does not touch the water and steam the pears as directed.
Can I make this recipe without honey?
Absolutely. Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for honey to make the recipe vegan. You might notice a subtle change in flavor, but it will still be delicious.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the dish?
Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup according to your taste preferences. For a less sweet option, reduce the quantity of honey or syrup, or use a different sweetener like agave nectar.
