At Top of the Hill Quality Produce, we're more than just a grocery store. We're a community. And as part of our commitment to the community, we aim to educate, inspire, and share knowledge. Today, we embark on a flavorful voyage through the world of pears—a fruit that deserves more spotlight than it often receives.

The Pear Chronicles: History and Evolution

Before diving into the distinct types, let's understand the history of pears. Pears have graced human diets for over 4000 years. Originating in the Caucasus Mountains, they've journeyed with traders and explorers, adapting and evolving, resulting in the many varieties we see today.
According to the USA Pears website, pears were first brought to the region by pioneers in the 1800s, and the unique agricultural conditions proved to be ideal for growing them. Today, Oregon and Washington are the top two pear-producing states in the United States! As a result, pears are an important part of the Northwest economy and culture.

Deep Dive: Understanding the Pear Spectrum

Our recent video below highlighted some of the best in the pear world. Let’s delve deeper:

• 
  Bosc Pears: Dark and slender, the Bosc pear's russeted skin might seem rugged, but inside, it's a world of sweet, spicy flavors. Its firm texture is why many chefs prefer it for heated dishes. From tarts to roasted pear salads, the Bosc stands tall and delicious.

• 
  
  Bartlett Pears: A global favorite known as the Williams pear in many parts of the world. Its smooth, buttery texture complements its sweet and musky aroma. Its versatility is unmatched—perfect for canning, snacking, or blending into a smoothie or sauce.

• 
  
  Comice Pears: Often termed the "Christmas Pear" due to its holiday harvest season, the Comice is juicy with a custard-like texture. Its sweetness makes it an excellent pairing with strong cheeses on a charcuterie board.

• Honey Sweet & Stark Crimson Pears: These are the gems of the pear world. Perfect for snacking, their intense sweetness can also complement savory dishes, adding a burst of flavor and texture.

• 
  D’Anjou Pears: With a unique egg-like shape, the D'Anjou is aromatic and juicy. While it's great to enjoy raw, try adding it to a grilled cheese sandwich for a gourmet twist.

Pear Care: From Store to Plate

A common question we encounter is, "How do I know when it's ripe?" Pears are a tad different. They ripen from the inside out, so when the neck gives slightly to pressure, it indicates ripeness. Store unripe pears at room temperature, but once ripe, refrigerate them to slow down the ripening process and prolong their shelf life.

Pear Inspirations: Culinary Ideas

Beyond the raw delight, pears offer a wide canvas for culinary explorations:

• Salads: Add slices of Bosc or Comice pears to fresh greens, toss in some walnuts, blue cheese, and a honey vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
• Desserts: Poached Bartlett pears in red wine or a pear galette can elevate any dinner.
• Beverages: Pear-infused water, pear smoothies, or pear cocktails—there's a lot to shake and stir.

The Pear Commitment

At Top of the Hill Quality Produce in Renton, Washington, our curated selection of northwest-grown pears is a testament to our commitment to quality. We want our community to savor the best, understand their food, and enjoy every bite or sip they take.

So, are you ready to embark on your pear adventure? Stop by to explore the different varieties, choose some to experiment with in the kitchen, and share your pear stories with us in the comments below. Whether you're picking them up from our store or ordering online, remember—there's a world inside every pear waiting to be discovered!