Asian Pears: Fruits of Capitalism

When was the last time you bit into an Asian pear? So crunchy, so juicy. So light but meaty enough to amount to a satisfying snack. Asian pears are perfect sliced into salads. Or how about toast topped with salty cheese, pear slices, and a drizzle of honey? There's a delicious three-minute project.

Chinese railroad workers brought the seeds to California in the 1850s. The asian pear is native to China and Korea. First planted by laborers and miners in the Sierra Nevadas during the Gold Rush, today these trees with pretty white flowers can be seen from California to Washington. Unlike other pears, these fruits should be consumed when firm and crispy.