Asian pears have many names, usually based on the region of harvest, but globally they are commonly called the nashi pear. Nashi, 梨, literally means “pear” in Japanese! Many people in Asian counties use these pears as gifts or serve it to guests. During the Edo Period in Japan, they were thought to ward off evil and misfortune and were planted near gates and corners of properties. In South Korea, they even have a museum dedicated to the Asian Pear called The Naju Pear Museum!
Varieties
Asian pears are native to China, Taiwan, Japan, and Korea. They are now cultivated in many East Asian countries, Australia, Greece, and parts of California and Washington. The most commonly grown in the US is the Japanese variety, and are a round shape like an apple. The less commonly grown Asian pear is the Chinese variety and it is by far the best tasting of all the Asian pears! The Chinese pear is shaped more like a traditional pear, but has creamy white-colored flesh and is VERY juicy! It can sometimes be found in Asian Markets in the US. Asian pears are classified into two groups. Most belonging to the Akanashi (‘Russet pears’) group, and have yellowish-brown rinds. While the others belong to the Aonashi (‘Green pears’) group and have yellow-green rinds.
Depending on where you live Asian Pears are available from early July until winter and their peak time will be between September and October.
How to Choose and Store
When picking your Asian pears look for ones that are very fragrant and unbruised, with little to no brown spots. Always be careful when handling, as Asian pears are very fragile and can bruise easily! Unlike traditional pears, Asian pears are actually hard and do not soften because they are harvested ripe. Therefore they should be fairly firm when gently squeezed.
Since they are harvested ripe, they have a longer shelf life than other pears. They will stay fresh for about 1 week at room temperature or up to 3 months stored in the fridge!