Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that defies expectations and tantalizes your taste buds! This vegan baked pears recipe is not just a dessert—it's a symphony of flavors that will transform your perception of plant-based cooking. Imagine tender, caramelized pears stuffed with creamy vegan feta, drizzled with a spicy-sweet honey that dances on your palate, creating a dish so irresistible that even non-vegans will be begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 ripe pears
- 1 cup crumbled vegan feta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Fresh mint for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your pears bake evenly and become tender.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the pears. Wash them thoroughly under running water, then slice them in half vertically. Use a spoon to scoop out the core and seeds, creating a small cavity in each half.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled vegan feta with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Mix well until the feta is coated in the oil, making it easier to spread and giving it a richer flavor.
- Fill each pear half with the vegan feta mixture, pressing down gently to ensure it stays in place. Arrange the stuffed pears in a baking dish cut side up.
- Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the pears, ensuring they are well-coated. This will help them caramelize and add flavor during baking.
- In a small saucepan, combine the honey and red pepper flakes. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally until the honey is warm and the red pepper flakes are well incorporated. This will create a spicy honey drizzle to complement the sweetness of the pears.
- Pour the honey mixture evenly over the stuffed pears, allowing it to seep into the cavities and coat the tops.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help steam the pears as they bake. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the pears are tender and slightly caramelized on top.
- Once done, remove the pears from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They will be hot!
- To serve, place the baked pears on individual plates or a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining hot honey from the baking dish over the pears.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and added freshness. Enjoy your delicious vegan baked pears with feta hot honey!
Tips
- Choose the Right Pears: Select ripe but firm pears like Bosc or Anjou for the best texture and flavor. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be mushy.
- Maximize Flavor Infusion: Let the pears sit with the olive oil and honey mixture for 5-10 minutes before baking to enhance their absorption of flavors.
- Vegan Feta Hack: If you can't find store-bought vegan feta, you can make a quick substitute using crumbled tofu mixed with nutritional yeast and herbs.
- Spice Level Control: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your heat preference. Start with less and add more if you enjoy a spicier kick.
- Garnish Creatively: While mint is classic, try experimenting with fresh thyme or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture and complexity.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the pears and have them ready to bake up to 4 hours in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 299kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
