Pears Turning Brown and Mushy? Before Tossing Them, Try These 11 Recipes (2024)

FAQs

Are overripe pears safe to eat? ›

Though some of your overripe pears may be a little too mushy for just eating on their own, they are perfect for things like smoothies and muffins.

Speed of browning can vary depending on the variety of apple or pear, and can also be impacted by the age of the fruit. Fruit that has browned is perfectly safe to eat but it doesn't look pleasing (just ask kids what they think of brown apple slices in their lunch boxes!).

Prevent discoloration of the peeled pears by holding them in a solution made by crushing six 500mg vitamin C tablets (or 1 teaspoon ascorbic acid) in one gallon water or use a commercial ascorbic acid mixture. Drain pears well before canning or freezing.

Just-picked or purchased pears should be ripened at room temperature. On the counter is fine, but keep unripened pears out of the 'fridge. Once ripe, you can store pears in the refrigerator. The cold temperatures will slow the ripening process and they'll keep for 3 to 5 days.

Tips. Unopened canned pears can be stored in the pantry for 12-18 months. Check the date on the label. After opening, store in the refrigerator for 5-7 days.

Trapped inside the tissue of fruits are molecules known as enzymes. These enzymes help fruit ripen and turn brown. When fruit is cut or starts to break down, the enzyme is released from the tissue of the fruit and exposed to air which causes the fruit to rapidly change color. This is known as enzymatic browning.

Pears ripen outward, so the inside, closest to the core, is the ripest and softest, while the outside that we see and feel is less ripe and, thus, firmer. Give the pear a light squeeze; if it feels really soft, that is usually a good indicator that it's past its prime.

Apricots, bananas, cantaloupe, kiwi, nectarines, peaches, pears, plantains, plums and tomatoes continue to ripen after being picked. Ripen fruit at room temperature. Once they are ripe, refrigerate.

We also know that pears can help control blood sugar and lower your chances of type 2 diabetes and stroke. They can even help you digest food better. And, as a bonus, they're a good way to make you feel like you've had a small treat with some added nutrition.

Bosc (pronounced BAHsk) pears stand out in a crowd for many reasons. Their long, curved stem and elegant elongated neck that widens gradually to a full rounded base creates a silhouette that is unique among pears. Bosc are also unique for their color: a warm cinnamon brown with russeting over the surface of the skin.

Can dogs eat pears? ›

Yes, dogs can eat pears. Pears are a great snack because they're high in copper, vitamins C and K, and fiber. If you're sharing pears with your dog, just be sure to cut the pear flesh into bite-size chunks and remove the pit and seeds first, as the seeds contain traces of cyanide.

Also, have sterilized jars with lids and rings at hand. Cut the pears into quarters, remove the core, and peel. Slice quarters in thirds if working with large pears or into half in working with small pears. Place prepared pears in water with 1 tbsp of lemon juice to keep them from turning brown.

While canned goods past their "best-by" date may not taste optimal, there's no real health risk in consuming canned goods as long as they remain in good condition. Here's why: The food in the container is commercially sterile and a vacuum seal prevents any new bacteria from getting in, so it will not spoil.

If planning to use pears uncooked, freeze using juice or water method. Freezing pears using dry packing or in sugar is the best method for pies or other cooked dishes. If planning to use pears in a sweetened jam, jelly, fruit butter, or sauce, try freezing using the juice or water method, but choose unsweetened juice.

For long-term storage, refrigerate unripened pears at a temperature of 32 to 35°F. European pears may be stored for one to three months. Remove stored fruit about one week prior to use to fully ripen at room temperature.

Pears can be preserved in several ways: refrigeration, freezing, canning, or dehydrating.