This is a yummy change from banana bread. The two secrets to making this are: 1) you must use over-ripe, juicy and flavorful pears and 2) do not over-mix. This should be stirred by hand (like most quick breads) to be extra moist and tender. This keeps nicely for several days. ===Ingredients=== * 1 1/2 cups flour * 1 teaspoon baking soda * 1/2 teaspoon salt * 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon * 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg * 1 cup sugar (a little less is OK) * 1 teaspoon vanilla * 1 large egg * 1/2 cup vegetable oil * 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest * 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice * 1 1/2 cups grated peeled ripe pears with juice (about 2 med-largeā€¦..asian variety tastes best) ===Technique=== - Whisk together dry ingredients (flour, soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg). - In a separate bowl, whisk together wet ingredients (the 7 remaining ingredients). - Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients folding until just moistened. - Add 1 cup chopped pecans if desired (tastes great without). - Bake in a greased loaf pan at 350 degrees for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes. Source: Joy of Cooking by way of Maria DiMaggio tags: vegetarian, pareve