Ages: 6 months and up

The pears in this easy, fragrant fruit sauce make for a delicious change of pace from the tasty but ubiquitous apple. Eat the sauce as is, swirl in a nourishing dollop of vanilla yogurt, or freeze it in small plastic containers for a preschool snack that doubles as an ice pack.

Ingredients

• 4 large, very ripe pears

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

Instructions

1. Peel and dice the pears. Put them in a medium pot set over medium-low heat. Stir in a tablespoon of maple syrup and cover. (If your pears aren't super juicy, add a 1/4 cup of water.)

2. Bring the pears to a simmer, then turn the heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pears are very soft and falling apart, about 20 minutes.

3. Puree the pears with a potato masher (a good job for a child if the pears are cool) or, for a smoother texture, use a food processor. Cool the pear sauce to room temperature, then eat or refrigerate. Makes about 2-1/2 cups.

Variations:

This mild pear sauce makes a perfect backdrop for other flavors. After you puree it, try adding:

1/3 teaspoon vanilla

A dash of cinnamon or cloves

A handful of fresh raspberries or dried cherries (add these at the beginning of cooking)

A few gratings of fresh ginger

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Find more about:

• Babies |
• Diet Nutrition |
• Eating Fruits & Vegetables |
• Fruit Side Dishes |
• Fruity Desserts |
• Healthy Snacks |
• Pears |
• Toddler

Related Categories:

• Healthy Snacks |
• Fruity Desserts |
• Fruit Side Dishes |
• February 2010