The Nashi pear is an interesting alternative to the conventional pear, both in terms of taste and health. Originally from Asia, the nashi pear has enriched not only the fruit basket, but also various dishes in this country for several years. Thanks to the numerous micronutrients it contains, its consumption has a positive effect on various areas of health.
This is what you should know about the nashi pear.
Originally from Asia, the nashi pear has enriched not only the fruit basket but also various dishes in this country for several years. The Nashi pear is an Asian fruit, which has long succeeded in entering the German supermarkets. Already since the 60s it is available in this country sporadically, since the 90s it has finally established itself. It originated in northern China, Japan and Korea. Externally, the Nashi pear resembles a very light apple, internally it is more reminiscent of a crisp pear. Therefore, it is colloquially known as an apple pear. Contrary to widespread rumors, however, the Nashi pear is not a cross between the two types of fruit. In terms of taste, it is a synthesis of apple, pear and melon, and some varieties also resemble berries or roses. In fact, however, it belongs to the pear genus. The name Nashi pear (Pyrus pyrifolia) is actually a duplication, as “Nashi” already means “pear” in Japanese. The nashi pear grows on a tree that can reach a height of 15 meters. The largest growing area for nashi pears is in Japan. Around 1200 varieties of the fruit are known there. It is now also grown in Europe, mainly in Italy and France, but also directly in Germany. The best time to harvest the nashi pear is in August and September. Shortly before picking, it should have developed so-called “ripening cheeks”. While in its natural state it only reaches a diameter of about 2.5 cm, cultivated varieties are about the size of an average apple and weigh about 200 grams. The edible, yellowish to ocher skin is thin and can be smooth or rough, depending on the variety. The flesh of the nashi pear is almost white, tastes sweet, sometimes also slightly sour and is pleasantly juicy when the fruit is ripe. When the fruit is very ripe, the consistency of the flesh may change to mealy, but this does not put the taste at a disadvantage.
Importance for health
The nashi pear is considered very healthy because it contains few calories – about as many as an apple or pear – but many different vitamins and minerals. The nashi pear is said to have numerous health-promoting effects. It is said to lower cholesterol, stimulate digestion and have a mild anti-inflammatory effect. It is even said to provide relief from a hangover after drinking too much alcohol. Since the flesh of the nashi pear is very juicy, it also provides the body with a relatively large amount of fluid. Since it also has a mild dehydrating effect, it is also an interesting food for detox and purification cures as well as for people with kidney or bladder problems. The abundant vitamin C supports the immune system and ensures healthy vessels, calcium strengthens bones and potassium regulates blood pressure. However, this is not the end of the list of its vitamins and minerals. To benefit from all its valuable ingredients, the nashi pear should be eaten raw if possible. When cooked, some of the nutrients may be lost.
Ingredients and nutritional values
100 grams of nashi pear contain on average:
- 32kcal (134kJ)
- 0g protein
- 8g carbohydrates
- Of which 8g sugar
- 0g fat
- 2g dietary fiber
- 60% water
A nashi pear of average size is about 200 grams, and therefore has about twice the nutritional value of the data for 100 grams. Nashi pear contains a lot of vitamin C (about 2mg per 100g), vitamin A, vitamins of the B group, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus.
Intolerances and allergies
The nashi pear can be an interesting food for fruit and cross-allergy sufferers.In particular, those who have an allergy to apples do not in all cases react with the typical allergy symptoms to the consumption of the nashi pear and can still enjoy the taste of a fruit that at least resembles an apple. However, this should be tested carefully. Usually, the consumption of a nashi pear is not recommended to the corresponding people. Unfortunately, the Nashi pear has a reputation for being treated with above-average levels of sprays. Many people are also sensitive to pesticide residues, which should be considered when eating.
Shopping and kitchen tips
Nashi pears taste best when they are properly ripe. After it is harvested, it spends up to six months in cold storage. Since it is also imported refrigerated, it can be stored for about two weeks after purchase – preferably at room temperature – and continue to ripen during this time. At home, however, it should no longer be placed in the refrigerator, as the aroma may suffer as a result of the too frequent alternation between warm and cold. The nashi pear is available in every well-stocked fruit and vegetable department of larger supermarkets. Discounters, however, rarely have them in their assortment. In terms of price, the Nashi pear is usually slightly above the level of domestic apples or pears. Since the nashi pear is very sensitive to pressure, it should be transported carefully. Often, when purchased for this reason, it is covered with a thicker net made of a firm foam, which is intended to protect the fruit. As a rule, the nashi pear is sold individually. So, for tasting, a single specimen can easily go into the shopping basket. For many people, the juicy sweet flesh of the inconspicuous fruit is a pleasant surprise.
Preparation tips
The nashi pear is usually enjoyed raw and in this case is prepared like a conventional apple or pear. The core should be removed before eating or left as with an apple. However, the nashi pear is also surprisingly versatile: as an unusual ingredient, it is excellent for dessert creations – for example, as a compote, in fruit salad or in cake – but also enriches savory dishes such as colorful salads or even game dishes. There it is processed like a conventional pear and in the course of this usually steamed. In combination with blue cheese it tastes just as good as with nuts. The nashi pear also tastes great together with a good ham, for example as an appetizer or finger food at a party.