How to Tell When a Pear Is Ripe
As pears ripen, they become softer and juicier. If you prefer a more crunchy and tart eating experience, enjoy pears before they become too ripe! Different pear varieties ripen differently, but with a few simple tips, you can enjoy Bartlett, Anjou, and Bosc pears at whatever stage you prefer.
Bartlett Pears: Watch for a Color Change
Bartlett pears are easy to recognize when they have reached peak sweetness. As they ripen at room temperature, their skin changes from green to yellow, signaling that they’re softening and becoming sweet. Place them in a bowl on your kitchen counter and check them throughout the week as they ripen.
Anjou Pears: Give the Neck a Gentle Press
Unlike Bartlett pears, Anjou pears generally stay green as they ripen. Instead of relying on color, gently press the pear near the stem with your thumb. If it yields slightly to pressure, it will have a juicy, sweet flavor. A firm Anjou will give a crunchy, sweet-tart eating experience.
Bosc Pears: Look for a Little Give
Bosc pears are another winter variety, known for their distinctive russet-brown skin and sweet, nutty flavor. Like Anjou pears, they don’t change color significantly as they ripen. They tend to be sweet and flavorful even early in the ripening process, and also stay more crisp than other varieties when ripe. Know they are ready when the neck gives slightly to pressure.
Simple Tips for Ripening Pears at Home
Bartlett pears ripen naturally at room temperature, while Anjou and Bosc pears benefit from refrigeration before ripening. Once you’re ready to ripen them, place your pears in a bowl on the counter or inside a brown paper bag. Adding a banana can help speed up the process because bananas release ethylene, a naturally occurring gas that encourages fruit to ripen. Ripening time varies by fruit and temperature, so check your pears regularly for the best results.
Bringing Great Pears to Your Table
Northwest growers take pride in bringing high-quality pears to consumers and their families year-round. By learning how each variety ripens, you can get the most out of every pear and enjoy it your favorite way!
