Ingredients
Fruits
- 1 large ripe pear (Bosc or Bartlett, organic preferred), peeled optional
Other Ingredients
- 1 tsp vegan butter, coconut oil, or neutral oil such as avocado oil (dairy butter can be used)
- 2 tsp maple syrup or brown sugar
- 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the pears: Quarter the pear and optionally peel it for better texture and nutrition. Carefully remove and discard the cores and stems. Cut each quarter into half or thirds to create approximately 1/2-inch wedges.
- Heat the pan and oil: Place a large rimmed skillet over medium heat. Add your choice of oil or (vegan) butter and swirl to evenly coat the pan.
- Cook pears partially covered: Add the pears in a single layer without crowding. Cover with a lid and cook for about 2 minutes, until the pears begin to brown. Adjust the heat to avoid burning if necessary.
- Caramelize with sugar and cinnamon: Remove the lid and add the maple syrup or brown sugar along with the ground cinnamon. Use a spatula to flip or gently toss the pears, cooking uncovered for another 1-2 minutes. Let them sit briefly to develop caramelized edges but be careful not to burn the pears.
- Deglaze and finish: Add lemon juice to the pan to deglaze and balance the sweetness. Stir to combine the flavors and remove from heat.
- Serve: Serve the warm caramelized pears alongside yogurt, oatmeal, porridge, waffles, pancakes, or ice cream. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; not suitable for freezing.
Notes
- Peeling the pear is optional; skin adds nutrition and ease but peeling improves texture.
- Use a single, large skillet to ensure pears cook evenly in one layer.
- Adjust heat carefully during caramelization to avoid burning the sugar.
- This recipe is gluten-free and vegan if using vegan butter or oil.
- Leftovers keep for up to 3 days refrigerated; not freezer friendly.
- Try different pear varieties but Bosc and Bartlett provide the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 of recipe (approx. 1 large pear with toppings)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
