Our Family’s Pear Drink (Baesuk) – A Taste of Nostalgia
Homemade Pear Drink (Baesuk): Comfort in a Bowl
The Baesuk my mother used to make when I was little was a dish that required a lot of care and time. This is our family’s Baesuk recipe, keeping that same heartfelt care but simplifying the process. Enjoy a taste of cherished memories with this comforting and fragrant homemade pear drink.
Ingredients
- 1 Pear (medium-sized)
- 1 packet of Marron Glacé (chestnuts in syrup, commercially available)
- 1 stick of Honey (or 1 Tbsp)
- 50g Ginger Syrup (or 3-4 Tbsp)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, gather all the ingredients for this recipe. You’ll need one fresh pear, a packet of commercially prepared Marron Glacé (sweetened chestnuts), a stick of honey for sweetness, and 50g of fragrant ginger syrup. This simple combination creates a surprisingly deep flavor.
Step 2
Wash the pear thoroughly. Then, carefully cut off the top quarter to use as a lid later. Using a spoon, gently scoop out the core, seeds, and inner flesh to create a cavity for the filling. Ensure you hollow it out sufficiently without breaking the pear’s skin.
Step 3
Generously fill the hollowed-out pear with the sweet and chewy Marron Glacé. These delightful chestnuts will add a wonderful texture and complement the pear’s natural sweetness, making it a favorite for both adults and children.
Step 4
Next, pour the aromatic ginger syrup into the pear, filling the cavity. Ginger syrup not only aids digestion but also imparts a warm, complex flavor profile. Feel free to adjust the amount to your preference.
Step 5
Finally, drizzle the honey stick (or tablespoon of honey) over the ginger syrup. Honey balances the flavors and adds a smooth, mellow sweetness to the Baesuk.
Step 6
Now, prepare for steaming. Pour water into a pot, large enough to hold the pear. Place the prepared pear inside. It’s best to use a steaming rack or ensure the water level is low enough so the pear isn’t submerged, allowing it to cook gently. Simmer over medium-low heat.
Step 7
While the pear is simmering, place the reserved pear top back on like a lid. This helps to keep the pear moist and allows the flavors of the filling to meld beautifully within the pear.
Step 8
As the Baesuk gently steams, you’ll notice the pear’s skin and flesh softening and turning a lovely caramel brown. Patience is key! Steaming for about 40 minutes to an hour will result in a perfectly tender pear.
Step 9
Your homemade Pear Drink (Baesuk) is ready! Serve it warm, letting the steam rise invitingly. It’s a comforting treat for adults, reminiscent of childhood, and a delightful, healthy dessert for children.
