Asian Pears can be stored for up to one week at room temperature. Place them directly on your kitchen counter-top or store them in a bowl. You can store them for up to three months in your refrigerator or other similarly cold place. Place on the refrigerator shelf or in the fruit drawer in a way that will prevent crushing or bruising.
We don't recommend freezing fresh Asian Pears that have not been processed. The juice and fibers will separate in the thawing process, and the results are not at all desired. However, freezing a cooked or processed pear (such as pear sauce) to which sugar has been added will work. Pear pie fillings can also be pre-baked and frozen. Make sure the pears are in a tightly sealed container prior to freezing to help reduce freezer burn and the growth of microorganisms.
Wash and peel pears. Cut in halves and remove cores. Slice, if desired. To prevent discoloration, keep pears in an ascorbic acid solution (a solution of 3 grams (3,000 milligrams) ascorbic acid to 1 gallon of cold water). Prepare a very light, light, or medium syrup or pack pears in apple juice, white grape juice, or water.
1. When selecting, look for a fairly strong and sweet aroma (they will not smell as strong if they are cold)
2. Avoid Asian Pears that are soft, wrinkled or have numerous scuff marks or are obviously bruised.
3. Asian Pears are the oldest known cultivated pear.