Rocha Pear About 0.18 Kg Each • $8.80 / Kg Final Cost By Weight

The **Rocha Pear** (or *Pêra Rocha*) is a premium and distinct variety of pear, primarily grown in Portugal. Here are the key characteristics of the Rocha Pear: ### Origin and Designation * **Origin:** The Rocha pear is a native Portuguese variety. It was discovered as a chance seedling in 1836 on the farm of **Pedro António Rocha** in Sintra, Portugal, which is how it got its name. * **PDO Status:** The pears produced in the Oeste (West) region of Portugal have a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, marketed as ***Pêra Rocha do Oeste***, which guarantees their unique quality and regional authenticity. ### Appearance, Flavor, and Texture * **Skin:** The skin is thin and smooth, typically a **pale green to yellow** color. A distinguishing feature is the presence of a characteristic **russeting** (small speckled bronze or brown spots) which is usually concentrated around the stem/peduncle. * **Flesh (Pulp):** The flesh is **white, firm, and crunchy** when less ripe, but becomes more **sweet, juicy, and soft-melting** as it ripens. It is known for its sweet, non-acidic flavor and slightly accented perfume/aroma. * **Ripening:** Unlike some pears, it maintains its firm texture for a long time, allowing it to be enjoyed at different stages—from crisp and slightly tart to sweet and buttery. ### Culinary Uses The Rocha Pear is a highly versatile fruit: * **Fresh Eating:** It is excellent eaten fresh, both when it is firm and crunchy, or when it is fully ripe and soft. Its size and resilience also make it popular for lunchboxes. * **Cooking:** Its flavor and texture hold up well in various cooked applications, including: * **Desserts:** Cakes, tarts, mousses, and, most famously, the traditional Portuguese dessert ***Pêras Bebâdas*** (pears poached in red wine). * **Savory Dishes:** Sliced in salads, or paired with strong cheeses (like Portuguese Nisa cheese) on a charcuterie board. * **Storage:** The Rocha pear has excellent storage properties, often keeping well in cold storage for many months, making it available on shelves from late summer well into the following spring.