Focus Workshop: What’s in Season – Pears

This two-hour workshop focuses on the humble yet versatile pear, abundant in Orange in April during F.O.O.D Week. Whilst sipping on a welcome glass of pear and ginger sparkler, learn from Hillside Harvest owner Paula Charnock about the characteristics of the seven varieties of pears grown at the orchard and how to choose and store them. Share from a sumptuous autumn charcuterie board featuring Paula’s pears with matched local cheeses, olives, cured meats and a beautiful pear centrepiece.

Learn tips for working with pears, including how to make a pear and nut granola, spiced autumn compote and a pear, hazelnut and blue cheese salad. Participants will then prepare and make a simple but stunning Spiced Poached Pear with Quenelles. Advice regarding which varieties to use in muffins, cakes and pies and when roasting will be shared, whilst enjoying the impressive dessert each participant has made.

Sustainable practices including ways to utilise over-ripe pears and pear cores (think pear nectar/syrup or nut-free chocolate spread) will also be covered. There will be time at the end to browse in the shop and pick up some pears from the orchard as well as other local ingredients used in the workshop.

Full workshop notes and recipes are provided.