Steamed Rock Sugar Pear

1 firm Asian pear

1-2 tblsp crushed rock sugar

It’s been a very cold California winter, so I ended up turning to this old home remedy for a cough, Steamed Rock Sugar Pear, 冰糖炖梨. This also happens to taste delicious! Great for a cold winter night. The steamed pear can be fully consumed and the juices are delicious as a warm, soothing drink for a sore throat.

Wash and peel pear using a small paring knife. Slice pear into wedges, avoiding core. Place pear core, wedges, and peel into a deep bowl. Add 1-2 tablespoons of crushed rock sugar to pear. You can easily crush rock sugar into smaller bits by placing inside a ziploc bag, place a thick towel over it, and smash with a large rolling pin.

Create a bain marie. Place bowl with pear(s) inside a larger pot. Add water to the pot surrounding the bowl. Cover and steam for about 30 mins or until fork tender.

You can also steam the pear whole for a prettier presentation, but you will need to increase the cooking time.