Pears With Spicy Lime, Chile And Peanut Chutney
Pears with spicy lime, chile, and peanut chutney offer a vibrant combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. The fresh mint adds a cooling touch, making this dish perfect as an appetizer or light snack for gatherings, showcasing bold flavors and crunchy textures that appeal to adventurous eaters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut each pear lengthwise into quarters.
- Using a melon baller, create a well in the center of each pear quarter.
- In a small bowl, mix together lime juice, lime zest, crushed red pepper, minced garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ground peanuts to prepare the chutney.
- Spoon the chutney into the hollowed-out section of each pear quarter.
- Garnish each pear with a sprig of fresh mint.
- Place the prepared pears on a serving tray and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding a dash of ginger or a splash of rice vinegar to the chutney. If you don't have Bosc pears, feel free to substitute with Anjou or Bartlett pears for similar sweetness and texture. Dry-roasted peanuts can be replaced with walnuts or cashews for a different nutty profile. Always taste the chutney before serving to adjust for sweetness or spice.
Serving Suggestions
These pears make a delightful appetizer or a refreshing dessert. Pair them with a dollop of yogurt or serve alongside a cheese platter featuring sharp cheeses for a contrast in flavors. They also pair beautifully with Meat In Mushroom Sauce for a heartier meal option. Consider garnishing with additional lime zest or crushed peanuts for extra visual appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chutney in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The pears should be kept separate from the chutney to prevent them from browning. If you want to reheat the chutney, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pears With Spicy Lime, Chile And Peanut Chutney contains roughly 63 calories, with 3g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2107mg per serving (92% 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 make the chutney ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chutney a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste when served with the pears.
What can I serve with the pears?
These pears can be served on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of dishes. Try serving them alongside grilled meats or as part of a charcuterie board. They add a unique flair to any meal, especially when paired with savory options.
Are there any vegan substitutes for this recipe?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option. The brown sugar can be replaced with coconut sugar or agave syrup. These changes will maintain the delicious flavor without compromising dietary preferences.
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).