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Pears are one of the easiest fruits to preserve because they don't require much handling. After knowing how to cook pears, you will know how they can be frozen, dehydrated or canned - the latter method being our favourite because it allows for creative freedom when flavouring the luscious syrup you'll use to preserve pears.
We've gathered a few tips and tricks, along with a helpful video, that will help you learn how to preserve pears in syrup. It's an easy process anyone can do at home given they have the proper equipment.
You'll need: canning jars and lids, two large pots (one for the pears, the other for boiling water), a slotted spoon and a jar lifter.
How to preserve pears
Here's what to do:
- Wash and dry the pears thoroughly with a paper towel.
- Peel the pears with a pairing knife or veggie peeler.
- Trim off stems and slice each pear in half lengthwise.
- Cut the pear in half again, this time removing the pits and core using the peeler.
- Place the cut pears in a bowl and toss with fresh lemon juice (which will prevent browning).
- Make a sugar syrup with one part sugar to two parts water. Let the sugar dissolve in the water. You may add other flavourings such as cinnamon, cloves, ginger or a cup of honey.
- Cook pears in the syrup until soft. It should take approximately one and a half to two hours for the syrup to thicken. Take off the stove and allow to cool.
- Separate into sterilised jars and follow the regular canning process. Use a slotted spoon to allow the syrup to drain as you’re putting the fruit into the jars. Put the fruit in the jar first, then fill up with the syrup.
- Leave about a quarter of an inch at the top before covering. Place the jars in a bath of boiling water, enough water to cover the tops of the jars, and leave for twenty minutes to vacuum seal.
Video: how to preserve pears in a syrup
Here's a great how-to video from Garden Girl who walks you through every step involved in canning pears. After prepping the pears you'll cook them in a sugar syrup spiced with ginger and later preserve them in jars.
Check out how to preserve pears at home:
Pears are packed with goodness and are an extremely versatile fruit in the kitchen, often 'pairing' well with savoury ingredients. Their tangy flavour cuts through the richness of the meat in this duck with pears main course recipe. The perfect gluten-free brunch, check out this autumnal recipe for tarte flambée with pumpkin and pears. Finally, this elegant goat’s cheese on pears with truffle vinaigrette appetiser is guaranteed to impress your guests at any dinner party.
