Curried Pears
Curried Pears offer a delightful blend of sweet, juicy pears infused with warm curry spices and a rich butter-sugar glaze. This unique dessert pairs well with ice cream or yogurt, making it perfect for those seeking a flavorful, comforting treat with a hint of exotic spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Use a small baking dish.
- Peel, halve, and core the pears.
- Combine butter, brown sugar, curry powder, and salt; mix with a spoon.
- Arrange pears in the baking dish and pour the curry mixture over them.
- Bake for 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using ripe pears for natural sweetness. If you’re out of curry powder, a blend of cumin and turmeric can work as a substitute. For a touch of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Keeping some of the peel on can add texture. This dish is also great warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the curried pears warm as a unique dessert or a side dish. They pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a sweet finish. For a savory twist, serve alongside roasted meats or a salad, such as an Apple-Pecan Caramel Salad, to balance the flavors. This dish also makes a great addition to a brunch table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pears in a baking dish and warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain their flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Curried Pears contains roughly 187 calories, with 3g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 985mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits instead of pears?
Yes, apples or ripe peaches can be excellent substitutes for pears in this recipe. Just ensure the fruits are firm enough to hold their shape during baking. Adjust the cooking time slightly if using softer fruits to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, as it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients other than butter. For a vegan option, substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and ensure any toppings are also plant-based.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more spice, consider increasing the amount of curry powder or adding fresh ginger and garlic to the butter mixture. A dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes can also enhance the heat without overpowering the dish. Adjust to your taste preference for the perfect kick!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).