Slicing pears – this video shows you all you need to know about how to slice a pear.   This is a useful cookery skill when preparing refreshing salads, such as a blue cheese, walnut and pear salad.

Pears – all you need to know

Here are some interesting facts about pears and how they are used in cooking across the world (Wikipedia):

• Several species of pear are valued for their edible fruit, while others are cultivated as ornamental trees
• Pears and apples cannot always be distinguished by the form of the fruit; some pears look very much like some apples!
• There is evidence of pears being used as a food since prehistoric times!
• Pears may be stored at room temperature until ripe – pears are ripe when the flesh around the stem gives to gentle pressure
• Pears ripen at room temperature – they will ripen faster if placed next to bananas in a fruit bowl!
• Pears are a good source of dietary fibre and a good source of vitamin C
• Pear wood is one of the preferred materials in the manufacture of high-quality woodwind instruments and furniture