Asian Pear & Apple Pie
Creating a savory and delicious Asian Pear & Apple Pie combines the sweetness and juiciness of Asian pears with the tartness of apples, resulting in a unique and delightful dessert. To achieve this, start by selecting firm, ripe Asian pears and your preferred variety of apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for a balanced flavor profile. Peel, core, and slice the fruits thinly, then toss them with a blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to enhance their natural flavors. For a savory twist, consider adding a touch of cardamom or a sprinkle of black pepper. Prepare your favorite pie crust, either homemade or store-bought, and layer the fruit mixture inside. To add depth, drizzle a bit of honey or a splash of lemon juice over the filling before covering it with a lattice crust or a full top crust. Bake until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. This pie is perfect for serving warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, offering a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that will impress any dessert lover.
Asian Pear & Apple Pie Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
2 large Asian pears, peeled and sliced
3 medium apples, peeled and sliced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
Pinch of salt
For the Pie Crust:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
6-8 tbsp ice water
Instructions:
Prepare the Pie Crust:
In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar.
Add the cold, cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough forms a ball.
Divide the dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Make the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced Asian pears and apples.
Add the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, flour, and salt. Toss to combine, ensuring the fruit is well coated.
Assemble the Pie:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface to fit your pie pan. Place it in the pan, trimming any excess.
Pour the fruit mixture into the prepared crust.
Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Seal the edges by crimping with your fingers or a fork.
Optionally, brush the top crust with an egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with 1 tbsp water) for a golden finish.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the pie to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
