Water pear: what variety is it, properties and season

Water pear

water pear

One of the seasonal fruits that we like the most are, without a doubt, the water pears. However, today in greengrocers and supermarkets many varieties have been appearing with the tagline ‘water pears’ without actually being considered as such.

Do you know which one is the real one? Do you want to know more about water pears and everything you need to know before buying them? Well, do not hesitate, next we are going to talk about them.

What is the water pear?

What is the water pear?

What is the water pear?

Pears are one of the most refreshing fruits you can have. Once ripe, fresh, it is delicious and even those who like the fruit the least, when the taste is left wanting more. Especially if what they eat is a water pear. But not only like that; cooked, as an accompaniment to other dishes, in pastries … there are many gastronomic options that we could quote you for the pears.

This fruit is typical Mediterranean, since its origin is found in Southeast Europe and Western Asia. However, today you can find it cultivated all over the world.

This has made that there are different varieties, many, and sometimes some of them are considered water pears when, in reality, they are not the true original. So what is the real water pear?

For that, we have to go to La Rioja, where the real water pears are produced, also called ‘blanquillas’. They are some of the most consumed in the country and it is not for less, since if they are of good quality, just put them in, they have a characteristic flavor and texture. But also that trickle of liquid that is the reason why they are called that.

The water pear is medium in size. Green and smooth in color, it has a small heart and white flesh. Its most important characteristic is that, once it is ripe to eat, as soon as you start to peel it you will see how it releases water flavored by the pear. When you bite it, it continues to release with what makes its meat very soft and exquisite, a delicacy that always produces that you want to repeat with another pear.

Now, because pears are already more widespread, and there are also more varieties, there is another that is also very “watery.” And it’s the Williams pear, also known as Bartlett. This is large and with a yellow or reddish yellow skin. Its flavor is also smooth and sweet, and with a lot of water.

These two could say that they are the ones that are considered water pears, although the original and really is from La Rioja.

What is the water pear season?

What is the water pear season?

What is the season for the water pear?

If you look at greengrocers, especially supermarkets, you will realize that there are almost all kinds of fruits throughout the year. The problem is that trees don’t bear fruit all year round, they have a season when they do and you would have to wait until the following year to enjoy them.

In the case of pears, something similar happens. In the market you can find that there are all year round, especially since there are different varieties. But in the case of the water pear, things change.

If you really want to eat a water pear, then the best time to do it is from June to December. And of all those months, the best is August. Why? Well, because the blanquilla pear, the one from La Rioja, is in that season when it has the highest consumption, and when the fruits are really harvested and distributed throughout Spain (and outside the country).

In the case of the other variety that also has water, the Williams pear, you must also wait until summer to taste it.

Thus, in autumn, winter and spring, you will have to opt for other varieties that, although they do not release as much water, it does not mean that they are not delicious in flavor, such as the Conference pear or the Ercolini pear.

Properties of the water pear or blanquilla

Properties of the water pear or blanquilla

Properties of the water or blanquilla pear

Among the properties of the water pear (similar to that of the apple), one of the main ones is undoubtedly water. Being made up of a percentage of this liquid, it makes it very hydrating, but also diuretic and purifying. Not only that, it is a great ally if you need soluble fiber content. And also, it has vitamins (especially group B) and minerals. It is very rich in potassium, phosphorus, copper, calcium and magnesium.

What can all of this do? Well, among the benefits of white pear are:

  • Regulates uric acid. To the point that it manages to eliminate the excess from the body.
  • It has a great laxative power, ideal for those who have problems in intestinal transit or who suffer from constipation.
  • For those who have fluid retention it is perfect, because it has a diuretic effect (it will make you go to the bathroom more times).
  • It improves bone growth as well as tissues and the nervous system in children (and also in adults, although to a lesser extent).
  • It helps reduce blood pressure (due to the amount of potassium it has).
  • Regulates the nervous system (by vitamins of group B).
  • It works against kidney stones.
  • It works in cases of prostatitis and cystitis.
  • It is beneficial for those suffering from bladder cancer.
  • Offers collagen, which helps your skin.
  • Improve eyesight.
  • It gives you defenses (improves your immune system).

How to get the best water pears?

Have you already wanted to eat a pear of water? If so, you can go to any greengrocer and supermarket and buy them, but are they really the best? Maybe not.

For, get the best white pearswe recommend the following:

  • Find growers who have water pears and buy directly from them. In this way you will know that they go from the tree to your table and they will be delicious. This with the Internet is easy to locate and with shipments in Spain you would not have any problem. In fact, many have been launched for sale online.
  • Talk to your greengrocer so that he can bring you “quality” water pears. Yes, they will be more expensive than the normal ones, but it is worth it for the flavor they have.
  • Plant a pear tree in your garden. It will require care to give you quality fruits, but it will be worth it later when you eat one of its fruits.

Now you just have to spend a little time when you go shopping to choose the original water pear. You sure don’t regret it when you eat it.

Water pear: what variety is it, properties and season

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