We named these delicious Asian pears (Pyrus pyrifolia) or nashis as ELMUT because of their shapes and texture. These pears are called many names, such as Asian pear, Japanese pear, Chinese pear, Korean pear, Taiwanese pear, apple pear, zodiac pear, and sand pear. Although most people think they are hybrid, they are not.
We grow Hosui, Kosui and Chojuro types. Each of these types of Elmuts have distinct fruity and floral aroma and come in different sizes but they share the shape of an apple.
Elmuts on the left side photo are hosuis-Pyrus pyrifolia. They are very aromatic and sweet; yet they are very delicate. Hosuis bloom in early April and ripen from mid July to first half of August usually.
Elmuts on the right are kosuis.
These are slightly larger than hosuis and ripen after them.
As depicted in the photo, fruits are yellow/brown russet, firm, crisp and juicy with a sweet low-acid flavor.
On the left are chojuros. These are larger in size, but do not loose their crispiness or juice. Originating from Japan in late 1895, Chojuro are the most popular type because of their size. They are large – from 3 inches (8 cm.) or more. They can be refrigerated up to six months.
All types of Elmuts have low glycemic index, therefore can be consumed more easily than other pears and fruits that have higher index figures.
As A.J. Andrews says “Despite a sweetness on par with most other varieties, Asian pears sit on the low end of the glycemic index at 25.9, have a low a glycemic load of 3.367 and contain about half the carbs of regular pears…..With a GI of 25.9 with a +/-2.9 margin for error, Asian pears are on the low end of the GI scale.” (Updated December 27, 2018) For more information on glycemic index and load of Asian pears please visit https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/glycemic-index-glycemic-load-carbohydrates-asian-pear-11617.html
Although Elmuts a new variety in Turkey and other places around world, they started taking over in other countries –
Apple Pears – Taking North America by storm- Apple Pears (also known as “Sand Pears”, “Nashi”, “Asian Pears”) have been described as the “HOTTEST NEW ITEM SINCE THE KIWI”, and it’s no wonder! The crispy, crunchy, juicy, sweet fruit is taking North America by storm. http://www.kingsburgorchards.com/products/applepears
You can eat them as you eat apples or pears, peel and slice, or with the skin. They are an attractive appetizer and can be served with other fresh fruits, meats, or cheeses. You can also add them to fruit salads, bread puddings, and stir-fry dishes. We love the dessert, and jam. We try several recipes with them and plan to share them with you soon.
If you like apple cider, you will love Elmut cider! It’s more refreshing and fruity. And since the fruits are more juicy than apples, less fruit more juice!