Why Chinese Tradition Embraces Boiled Pear for Colds
Across global cuisines, generations have passed down hidden culinary remedies to combat seasonal viruses. In Chinese tradition, unique practices involve using seasonal fruits and herbs to maintain bodily health. One such time-honored custom is consuming boiled pear at the very beginning of a cold.
According to legends rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, when individuals first notice cold symptoms like a slight headache or stuffy nose, they immediately turn to boiled pear. They not only eat the softened fruit but also drink the hot concoction. This practice is believed to be most effective when the pathogen remains on the body's surface, not yet deep within. The remedy gently opens the lungs, moisturizes dryness, and assists the body in expelling illness rather than allowing it to settle.
Scientific Insights into Pear's Medicinal Properties
A study titled A review of pears (Pyrus spp.), ancient functional food for modern times reveals that pears contain numerous active compounds. These include flavonoids, triterpenoids, and phenolic acids such as arbutin, chlorogenic acid, and malaxinic acid. Researchers have found that beneficial compounds are concentrated in the peels.
From various in vitro, in vivo, and human studies, the medicinal functions of pears can be summarized as follows:
- Anti-diabetic, anti-obese, and anti-hyperlipidemic effects
- Anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic, and anti-carcinogenic properties
- Detoxification of xenobiotics
- Respiratory and cardio-protective effects
- Skin whitening benefits
Traditionally, pears have been used for digesting meat, and their role in alleviating alcohol hangover has been confirmed by research. A Chinese pharmaceutical encyclopedia elaborates on pear characteristics, noting they are sweet, slightly sour, cold, and harmless. However, excessive consumption may lead to weight loss and diarrhea, emphasizing the importance of moderate portion sizes.
How to Prepare Boiled Pear or Asian Pear Tea
This simple yet effective remedy requires minimal ingredients and preparation time. Follow these steps to create your own soothing boiled pear dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pear (Asian pear or any available variety)
- 2 cups of water
Method
- Wash the pear thoroughly and slice it into pieces.
- Add the sliced pear to a saucepan filled with water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-4 minutes.
- Once ready, sip the warm water first, then consume the softened pear.
Other Traditional Chinese Dishes Featuring Pear
Beyond the basic boiled pear remedy, Chinese cuisine incorporates this fruit into various dishes that offer both culinary delight and health benefits.
Chinese Steamed Pear with Rock Sugar
A classic dessert and home remedy, this dish involves steaming pears with rock sugar, sometimes enhanced with goji berries. It is renowned for its soothing effects on the throat and lungs, making it a popular choice during colder months.
Snow Pear Soup
As the name suggests, this warm soup features Asian pears simmered with rock sugar, dates, and occasionally tremella (snow fungus). It serves as a light dessert soup commonly enjoyed in winter, offering comfort and nourishment.
Stir-Fried Pear with Shrimp
This savory dish combines pear slices with shrimp, ginger, and light soy sauce. The result is a delicate balance of sweet and savory flavors, creating a comforting side dish that highlights the pear's versatility.
Pear and Pork Stir-Fry
To prepare this dish, thinly sliced pork is cooked alongside pear slices, garlic, and scallions. Experts note that the pear adds tenderness and a subtle sweetness, making it a hearty and comforting accompaniment.
Pear and Chicken Soup
This nourishing soup blends chicken chunks, pear slices, ginger, and Chinese herbs, all simmered together in chicken stock. Consuming this soup is believed to support respiratory health, making it a staple in traditional wellness practices.
These recipes showcase how Chinese culinary traditions seamlessly integrate health remedies with everyday cooking, offering both flavor and therapeutic benefits. Whether used as a simple cold remedy or incorporated into elaborate dishes, pears remain a cherished component of holistic wellness in Chinese culture.
