Slicing Apples and Pears

Hard fruits can be sliced as you like, but for classic presentations in tarts and pastries or for poaching, special slicing techniques need to be learnt. Here three of the most commonly used shapes are shown, together with a clever method of chopping that ensures neatly diced fruit with a minimum of waste.

Core and peel an apple, keeping it whole. Hold the apple on its side and slice downwards.

Peel, halve and core pear, leaving stalk intact. Put cut- side down and slice from stalk to bottom. Press with your hand to fan out slices.