Aunt Sarah's Spiced Pears Recipe

Aunt Sarah's Spiced Pears Recipe

History:
Aunt Sarah's Spiced Pears is a delightful recipe that has been passed down through generations in our family. It originated from our great-great-grandmother, Sarah, who loved to experiment with different flavors and spices. The recipe was created as a way to preserve the delicious taste of fresh pears while adding a unique spiced twist. Over the years, it has become a beloved family tradition and is often made during the fall season when pears are at their best.

Fun Fact:
Did you know that pears are one of the oldest cultivated fruits? They have been enjoyed by humans for over 4,000 years! Pears are not only delicious but also offer numerous health benefits. They are a great source of fiber and vitamin C, making them a perfect addition to any diet.

Ingredients:
- 7 pounds of Bartlett pears (or small sweet Seckel pears)
- 1 pint of good cider vinegar
- 3 pounds granulated sugar
- Small cheesecloth bag containing several tablespoonfuls of whole cloves
- Small cheesecloth bag containing several tablespoonfuls of stick cinnamon, broken in pieces

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the pears. If using Bartlett pears, pare and cut them in halves, and remove the core and seeds. If using Seckel pears, simply pare them and leave them whole, allowing the stems to remain. Weigh the pears and make sure you have 7 pounds.

2. In a large preserving kettle, combine 1 pint of good cider vinegar, 3 pounds of granulated sugar, and the small cheesecloth bags containing whole cloves and stick cinnamon.

3. Place the kettle on the stove and allow it to come to a boil. Stir occasionally to ensure that the sugar dissolves completely.

4. Once the syrup is boiling, add the prepared pears to the kettle. Let the pears cook in the syrup until they become tender. You will know they are done when the fruit looks clear and easily cuts with a spoon.

5. Using a perforated spoon, carefully remove the cooked pears from the hot syrup and place them into pint glass jars.

6. While the syrup is still boiling, continue to cook it until it reaches a thick honey-like consistency. This may take some time, so be patient.

7. Once the syrup is thickened, pour it over the pears in the jars, completely covering them.

8. Seal the jars while they are still hot to ensure proper preservation. You can use the traditional canning method or simply tighten the lid on the jars securely.

9. Optionally, you can place the jars in a warm oven to further seal them or to create a nice presentation.

Once the Aunt Sarah's Spiced Pears are cooled and properly sealed, they can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year. The longer they sit, the better the flavor becomes as the spices infuse into the pears.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoy Aunt Sarah's Spiced Pears, you might also like to try other spiced fruit recipes. Here are a few recommendations:

1. Spiced Apples: Similar to the spiced pears, you can follow the same recipe using apples instead. Choose a firm and slightly tart variety, like Granny Smith, and prepare them in the same way as the pears. The result is a deliciously spiced apple snack that can be enjoyed on its own or used in desserts and baked goods.

2. Spiced Peaches: If you prefer a softer fruit, spiced peaches are a fantastic option. Follow the same instructions as the spiced pears but substitute 7 pounds of fresh peaches. The natural sweetness of the peaches combined with the warm spices creates a heavenly flavor that will leave you wanting more.

3. Spiced Plums: Plums also work wonderfully in a spiced fruit recipe. Choose ripe but firm plums, peel them if desired, and proceed with the same recipe. The tartness of the plums pairs beautifully with the spices, creating a delightful combination.

Get creative and experiment with different fruits and spice combinations to find your favorite spiced fruit recipe. These homemade treats are not only delicious but also make fantastic gifts for family and friends during the holiday season. Enjoy the comforting taste of spiced fruits and carry on the tradition of Aunt Sarah's recipe!