Baesuk
Korean Poached Pears
Baesuk is a traditional Korean dessert and folk remedy, featuring pears gently poached in a fragrant syrup infused with ginger and honey. It's often served warm as a comforting treat, especially during cold and flu season.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 Asian pears(Choose firm but ripe pears, such as Korean or Nashi pears.)
- 4 tbsp Honey(Or substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option.)
- 2 inches Fresh ginger(Peeled and thinly sliced into coins or julienned.)
- 1 tbsp Pine nuts(Lightly toasted, for garnish.)
- 10 whole Black peppercorns
- 2 cups Water(For poaching liquid.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the pears: Wash the pears. Using a sharp knife or a melon baller, carefully core each pear from the top, creating a cavity. Be careful not to pierce through the bottom. You can also peel the pears if desired, though leaving the skin on is traditional and adds nutrients.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Stuff the pears: Divide the honey, sliced ginger, and whole black peppercorns evenly among the cored cavities of the pears. Gently press the fillings in.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Prepare the poaching liquid: In a medium saucepan or pot that can comfortably hold the pears upright, combine the 2 cups of water. Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Poach the pears: Carefully place the stuffed pears upright in the simmering water. The water should come about halfway up the pears. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let the pears poach gently. The cooking temperature should be around 85-90°C (185-195°F) – a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil.
⏱️ 40-50 minutes - 5
Finish and serve: Once the pears are tender, carefully remove them from the poaching liquid using a slotted spoon or tongs. Place each pear in a serving bowl. Spoon some of the warm poaching liquid (syrup) over the pear. Garnish with toasted pine nuts.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Baesuk is highly regarded as a natural remedy for colds and coughs due to the warming properties of ginger and the soothing nature of honey.
- ✓Serve warm for maximum comfort and therapeutic effect.
- ✓Consider this a nourishing, medicinal food that is also a delightful dessert.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add dried jujubes (Korean dates) to the poaching liquid for extra sweetness and health benefits.
- Include a cinnamon stick in the poaching liquid for a warmer, spicier flavor profile.