Pear Packham Imperfect Each

Imperfect Packham pears are a brilliant buy when pears are in their stride. They might be a little lopsided, carry a surface mark, or sit outside the size grade, but the flesh tells a different story: sweet, soft, and juicy when they are ripe, with that classic mild pear flavour that works in the kitchen as well as out of hand.

Packhams are at their best from autumn through winter, when the cool growing conditions bring out their natural sweetness. That is the time to stock up.

Look for pears that are firm with no soft spots or bruising. Bring them home firm and let them ripen at room temperature until the neck gives slightly to gentle pressure. That is when they are ready.

Eat them fresh, poach them in red wine, slice them over a cheese board, or fold them through a salad with walnuts and blue cheese.

Great pears at a better price.