So now you have all of these ripening pears from the fall that you need to do something with. Instead of the same old peanut butter and grape jelly, try pear preserves on your next sandwich, biscuit or cheese and cracker plate. This very easy recipe will help you make and can your next - or maybe first - batch of pear preserves to enjoy or give away as a gift.

Ingredients:

.................... · Pears (peeled, cored and sliced)

..........................· Sugar

.........................· Water

Directions:

**Measurement of pears and sugar are based on weight. Any amount over a pound can be used as long as the calculation is 3/4 pound of sugar for every 1 pound of sliced fruit.

If pears are not ripened, boil slices in water until they are tender. Remove from water and let cool. If they are already beginning to ripen, then proceed with directions.

Arrange a layer of sliced pears in a large bowl and cover with a good layer of sugar. Repeat process until all pears are used. Make sure enough sugar is left to provide a good cover over last layer of pears . Lay a dish towel over bowl and let sit overnight.

Transfer to a large boiler pan and add enough water to cover bottom of pan. Syrup from pears sitting overnight could be enough liquid to do just that. Boil gently until pears are clear and syrup is thick (between 1 – 2 hours). Stir frequently, but gently to not break the fruit. Remove any bubbles collecting at the top during the cooking process. Pour into sterilized jars and seal.

This article was written exclusively for www.bestfoodierecipes.com by LowCountry Barbecue, proud to be a leading Atlanta caterer for over 25 years. LowCountry Barbecue takes Atlanta catering to the next level for families and businesses, big or small; no occasion is too small and no party is too much.