Pear Dessert Tasting with Hedy Goldsmith

Last night we had the privilege of attending a special pear dessert tasting with Michael's Genuine Pastry Chef extraordinaire, Hedy Goldsmith. Organized by the Pear Bureau Northwest, a non-profit marketing organization to promote and develop markets for fresh pears grown in Oregon and Washington, we were able to sample what had to be some of the best pear dishes ever put on a plate. While we're not really able to grow pear in South Florida, they are incredibly good for you and very versatile, as Hedy demonstrated with her multi-course (!) dessert menu. It's no wonder that every dish was such a knockout - Pears from the Northwestern USA are known for being some of the best in the world.

Check out the pictures after the jump.

First course: Pear and Pistachio Baklava with Frozen Greek Yogurt

Second course: Wood Roasted Pears with Maple Flan and Ginger Snap Ice Cream Sandwich

Third course: Pear Panini with Manchego Cheese, Membrillo and Marcona Almond Praline

Finale: Crispy Stout Battered Pears with Local Honey Drizzle

And if you were wondering, as we were, how to tell when pears are ripe, USA Pears advised us to simply check the neck. Apply gently pressure near the neck or stem and if it yields slightly, it's ripe. If you wait until it's soft around the middle, it might be overripe.