The Seckel pear (pronounced /ˈsɛkəl ˌpɛər/) is a small, sweet variety of pear that is often used in baking and canning. The spelling of the word "Seckel" comes from the name of the original cultivator, a Pennsylvania farmer named Henry Seckel. The IPA phonetic transcription of the word is "Sek-uhl pair," with the emphasis on the first syllable. The word is often mispronounced as "Sek-el pair," but the correct pronunciation includes a brief pause between the two syllables.
A Seckel pear is a small and sweet variety of pear, scientifically known as Pyrus communis. It is named after the Seckel family, who first cultivated this particular type of fruit in the early 1800s.
The Seckel pear is typically petite in size, often no larger than a golf ball or a small chicken egg. It has a distinctive round or bell-like shape, with a slightly bulbous base that tapers towards the stem. The skin of the Seckel pear is smooth and firm, displaying a range of colors from dark green to golden yellow, often adorned with reddish-brown spots or russeting.
Its flesh is creamy-white in color and has a fine, juicy texture, providing a burst of delectable sweetness. The flavor of a Seckel pear is often described as highly aromatic, intensely sweet, and with a subtle spicy undertone. Given its compact size and unique flavor profile, the Seckel pear is often considered a gourmet or heirloom variety, favored by many chefs and food enthusiasts for its exceptional taste.
Seckel pears are commonly enjoyed as a fresh eating fruit due to their small size and delectable flavor. They can also be used in a variety of culinary preparations, such as poaching, baking, or making pearsauce. Additionally, Seckel pears make an excellent addition to salads and cheese plates, providing a refreshing and sweet contrast to other ingredients.
The word "Seckel" originates from the surname of the family who first cultivated and popularized the pear variety. The Seckel pear is named after David Seckel, a farmer from Pennsylvania, United States, who discovered the pear tree around the 18th century. These small, sweet pears became widely known as "Seckel Pears" due to their association with the Seckel family and their successful cultivation of the variety.