Pear Butter Recipe Canning A Homemade Delight

Pear butter recipe canning – Pear butter recipe canning: Dive into a world of sweet, spiced perfection! Imagine the aroma of simmering pears, their fragrance filling your kitchen with autumnal warmth. This isn’t just about preserving fruit; it’s about crafting a taste of sunshine to enjoy long after the last pear falls from the tree. We’ll journey from selecting the perfect pears – ripe, but firm, like a well-loved friend – to the satisfying
-pop* of perfectly sealed jars.

Get ready to unlock the secrets of creating a homemade treasure, a culinary adventure that’s as rewarding as it is delicious. Let’s get started on this wonderfully simple yet deeply satisfying project, transforming humble pears into something truly extraordinary.

From its humble beginnings as a practical way to preserve the autumn harvest, pear butter has evolved into a culinary star, appearing in everything from elegant desserts to savory sauces. This guide will walk you through the process, from choosing the right pears and mastering the canning technique to exploring creative ways to enjoy your homemade pear butter. Whether you’re a seasoned canning pro or a curious beginner, you’ll find this journey both informative and incredibly satisfying.

Prepare to be amazed by the versatility and deliciousness of this simple yet rewarding endeavor.

Introduction to Pear Butter

Pear butter, a culinary delight with roots stretching back centuries, isn’t just a simple spread; it’s a testament to the resourceful spirit of humankind and the enduring appeal of simple, delicious ingredients. Imagine a time before refrigeration, when preserving the bounty of autumn was crucial for survival. Pear butter, in its various forms, emerged as a clever solution, transforming abundant pears into a long-lasting, flavorful treat.

Its history is interwoven with the stories of countless families and communities who learned to cherish this versatile food.The delightful journey of pear butter reveals a surprising diversity across cultures. While the core concept remains the same – cooked pears reduced to a smooth, spreadable consistency – the nuances of preparation and flavor profiles vary dramatically. Think of the subtly spiced pear butter of old New England, the richer, more intensely flavored versions found in the heartland of America, or the perhaps unexpected pear butter variations infused with warming spices in regions with colder climates.

These differences reflect the unique culinary traditions and readily available ingredients of each region. The addition of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even ginger creates a whole new range of flavor possibilities, transforming the simple pear into a complex culinary experience. Some recipes might include a touch of lemon juice for brightness, while others opt for a hint of maple syrup for added sweetness.

The possibilities are as endless as the varieties of pears themselves.

Nutritional Benefits of Pear Butter

Pear butter offers a surprisingly nutritious profile, providing a delicious way to incorporate beneficial elements into your diet. A good source of fiber, pear butter aids in digestion and contributes to a healthy gut microbiome. Pears themselves are rich in antioxidants, and while the cooking process might slightly alter their concentration, the finished product still retains a considerable amount of these beneficial compounds.

These antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals, contributing to overall well-being. Moreover, pear butter is relatively low in fat, making it a guilt-free indulgence for those watching their calorie intake. It’s a satisfying treat that can be incorporated into a balanced diet without significant caloric impact. Remember, moderation is key to reaping the full benefits of any food, even something as delicious as pear butter.

Selecting and Preparing Pears for Pear Butter

Crafting the perfect pear butter begins, quite naturally, with selecting the right pears. The journey from orchard to jar is paved with delicious decisions, and choosing your pears wisely is the first, crucial step. Think of it as the foundation upon which your culinary masterpiece will be built; a sturdy, flavorful foundation indeed!The success of your pear butter hinges on using pears that are both ripe and firm.

Overly soft pears will result in a mushy, less-than-ideal texture, while underripe pears will yield a tart and astringent result, lacking the sweetness and smooth consistency we crave. Finding that perfect balance is key to pear butter nirvana.

Pear Variety Selection

Choosing the right pear variety is like selecting the perfect paint for a masterpiece; each shade contributes to the overall beauty. Certain pear varieties lend themselves beautifully to pear butter, boasting the ideal balance of sweetness, acidity, and texture. Anjou pears, with their delicate sweetness and creamy texture, are a consistently popular choice. Bartlett pears, known for their juicy flesh and aromatic fragrance, also make a wonderful contribution.

Consider also Bosc pears, offering a slightly more assertive flavor and a lovely firm texture when ripe. Experimentation is encouraged! The world of pears is vast and delicious.

Washing, Peeling, Coring, and Chopping Pears

Now for the hands-on part, a culinary adventure in itself! First, thoroughly wash your chosen pears under cool running water. This removes any dirt or pesticide residue, ensuring a clean and pure final product. Next, the peeling process: a sharp vegetable peeler makes quick work of this task, removing the skin efficiently. Then, core the pears; this can be done easily with a melon baller or a paring knife.

Remember to remove the stem and blossom ends as well. Finally, chop the pears into manageable pieces, aiming for roughly 1-inch cubes. Consistency is key for even cooking and a smooth final product. Picture this: perfectly uniform pear cubes, a testament to your precision and dedication.

Importance of Ripe but Firm Pears, Pear butter recipe canning

The ideal pear for pear butter is a delicate balance—ripe enough for maximum sweetness and flavor, yet firm enough to hold its shape during cooking and canning. Imagine the texture: not overly soft and mushy, but rather a delightful balance between creamy smoothness and gentle firmness. Using pears that are too ripe can lead to a watery, overly soft final product.

Conversely, underripe pears will lack the desired sweetness and result in a less enjoyable, more astringent taste. This perfect ripeness is the sweet spot, the goldilocks zone of pear butter creation. Aim for pears that yield slightly to gentle pressure, but still hold their shape. Think of it as the perfect dance between ripeness and firmness.

Pear Butter Recipe Variations

Pear Butter Recipe Canning A Homemade Delight

Let’s get down to the delicious nitty-gritty: experimenting with pear butter recipes! The beauty of pear butter lies in its adaptability. From a simple, classic version to more adventurous flavor profiles, the possibilities are as endless as a summer afternoon spent picking ripe pears. Get ready to explore a world of pear butter perfection.

Crafting pear butter is a delightful journey, a dance between sweet and tart. It’s all about that perfect balance, you see! But if you’re feeling adventurous, why not expand your canning horizons? Check out this fantastic resource for canning pickled vegetables canning pickled vegetables recipe , it’s a real game-changer. Then, return to your pear butter, a comforting classic, ready to brighten your winter days with its sunshiney flavor.

It’s a rewarding process, and the end result? Pure deliciousness.

Basic Pear Butter Recipe

This recipe is your trusty companion, the foundation upon which you can build your pear butter empire. It showcases the natural sweetness and delicate flavor of the pears, allowing their essence to shine. It’s perfect for beginners and those who appreciate simplicity at its finest.

  • 6 cups peeled, cored, and chopped ripe pears
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a hint of warmth)

Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pears are very soft and have broken down into a smooth puree (approximately 1-2 hours). Reduce heat to low and continue to simmer, stirring frequently, until the pear butter reaches your desired consistency (another 30-60 minutes). This is where patience truly pays off, as the longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes.

Remember to stir frequently to prevent burning.

Spiced Pear Butter Recipe

For those who enjoy a warm, comforting embrace in every spoonful, this spiced pear butter is your perfect match. The addition of warming spices elevates the pear’s natural sweetness, creating a truly decadent treat. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen—pure autumnal bliss!

  • 6 cups peeled, cored, and chopped ripe pears
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • Pinch of ground nutmeg

Follow the same cooking instructions as the basic recipe, but savor the intoxicating fragrance as the spices infuse the pear butter. The result is a deeply flavorful spread that’s perfect for toast, biscuits, or even as a unique glaze for meats.

Preserving the sweetness of autumn with homemade pear butter is a delightful journey; canning ensures you savor that taste all year round. While mastering the perfect pear butter recipe, you might find yourself pondering other preserving adventures – like, for instance, understanding the tangy complexities of what is dill pickle relish , a surprisingly versatile condiment.

Back to those pears though – the fragrant steam rising from the jars, the rich, golden color… it’s pure autumn magic bottled up, ready to brighten even the dreariest winter day. So, grab your pears and let’s get canning!

Citrus Pear Butter Recipe

A burst of sunshine in every bite! This recipe adds a vibrant zing to the classic pear butter, balancing the sweetness with a refreshing tang. The citrus complements the pears beautifully, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

  • 6 cups peeled, cored, and chopped ripe pears
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • Zest of 1 lemon

The cooking method remains consistent with the previous recipes. The citrus zest adds a delightful textural element, while the juices contribute a bright, refreshing acidity. This pear butter is a revelation, a testament to the power of simple yet impactful flavor combinations.

Recipe Comparison

This table provides a handy overview of the three pear butter recipes, highlighting their key differences. Remember, these are guidelines; feel free to adjust the spices and sweetness to your liking.

Recipe Sugar (cups) Citrus Spices
Basic 1 1/4 cup lemon juice Optional: 1/4 tsp cinnamon
Spiced 1 1/4 cup lemon juice 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 tsp allspice, 1/4 tsp cloves, pinch nutmeg
Citrus 1 1/2 cup orange juice, 1/4 cup lemon juice, zest of 1 orange & 1 lemon None

Canning Pear Butter

Embarking on the delightful journey of preserving your homemade pear butter requires a bit of preparation, but the reward – jars of sunshine-y goodness waiting for you months later – is well worth the effort. This section will equip you with the knowledge and tools to safely can your pear butter, ensuring a delicious and safe product for you and your loved ones to enjoy.

Making pear butter is a wonderfully rewarding canning project; the sweet, spiced aroma alone is worth the effort! If you’re feeling adventurous and want to expand your preserving skills, check out this fantastic guide on preserving apple pie filling – it’s surprisingly similar in technique. Then, once you’ve mastered both, you’ll be a canning champion, ready to tackle any fruit that crosses your path, your pantry overflowing with delicious homemade goodness!

Think of it as your personal culinary adventure, a blend of science and sweetness.

Canning Equipment

Gathering the right equipment is paramount to a successful canning experience. Having everything at hand before you start minimizes stress and ensures a smooth, efficient process. Imagine it as prepping for a delightful cooking show, but instead of a fancy kitchen, you’re the star in your own home canning studio.

  • Canning Jars: Choose half-pint or pint-sized jars specifically designed for canning. These jars are made of strong, heat-resistant glass and are designed to withstand the pressure changes during processing. They’re the sturdy vessels that will hold your precious pear butter. Look for jars with a smooth, even surface to ensure a good seal.
  • Lids and Rings: New lids and rings are essential for each jar. Reusing lids can compromise the seal, leading to spoilage. The rings simply hold the lids in place during processing, and the lids themselves create the airtight seal necessary for safe preservation. Think of them as the protective guardians of your pear butter.
  • Canner: A large, stockpot or pressure canner (for high-altitude canning) is crucial. This is where the magic happens – the boiling water bath will create the necessary heat to sterilize the jars and ensure a proper seal. A good quality canner will be a loyal companion for many canning adventures to come.
  • Jar Lifter: A jar lifter is a must-have to prevent burns when handling hot jars. This simple tool makes the entire canning process safer and less stressful. Consider it your personal safety net.
  • Other Useful Tools: A large pot for cooking the pear butter, a ladle for transferring it into jars, a funnel to aid in filling, and clean kitchen towels complete the essential toolkit. These items, while not strictly canning-specific, enhance the process considerably.

Sterilization and Food Safety

Proper sterilization is not merely a suggestion; it’s the cornerstone of safe home canning. Neglecting this critical step can lead to spoilage and potentially harmful bacteria growth. It’s about ensuring the longevity and safety of your delicious creation. Think of sterilization as your pear butter’s bodyguard, protecting it from unwanted intruders.

“Always prioritize safety. Proper sterilization is the key to preventing foodborne illnesses.”

Sterilizing Jars and Lids

The process of sterilizing jars and lids is straightforward but vital. It’s a crucial step in preventing spoilage and ensuring the safety of your canned pear butter. This isn’t just about cleanliness; it’s about creating a sterile environment for your delicious creation to thrive in.

  1. Wash and Inspect: Wash jars and lids in hot, soapy water. Carefully inspect each jar for any chips or cracks. Discard any damaged jars.
  2. Sterilize: Fill the canner with enough water to completely submerge the jars by at least an inch. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Carefully place the jars and lids in the boiling water and boil for at least 10 minutes (adjust according to your altitude). This process eliminates any lingering bacteria or microorganisms.
  3. Remove and Dry: Use the jar lifter to carefully remove the sterilized jars and lids from the boiling water. Place them upside down on a clean towel to dry. This ensures that they remain sterile until the pear butter is ready for canning.

The Canning Process

Pear butter recipe canning

So, you’ve got your glorious pear butter, bubbling away and smelling heavenly. Now comes the crucial part: safely preserving your delicious creation for months of enjoyment. Canning might seem daunting, but with a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll be a pear butter canning pro in no time. Think of it as a culinary adventure, a journey from orchard to pantry, sealed with a satisfying – pop*.Let’s dive into the step-by-step process, ensuring your pear butter remains vibrant and delicious long after the last pear is picked.

Accurate measurements and careful technique are key to success – and to avoiding any unwanted guests in your pantry!

Preserving the bounty of autumn? My pear butter canning journey always sparks joy! This year, I’m branching out – after the pear butter cools, I plan a delightful side project inspired by the rich, jewel-toned magic of a concord grape pie filling. Think of the amazing flavor combinations! Then, back to those sweet pears – the canning process is totally manageable, I promise; you’ll feel incredibly accomplished.

Let’s get those jars filled!

Preparing Jars and Lids

Cleanliness is paramount in canning. Thoroughly wash your jars and lids in hot, soapy water. Then, sterilize them in boiling water for at least 10 minutes. This eliminates any lurking bacteria that could spoil your precious pear butter. Imagine the devastation of a perfectly made batch ruined by a rogue microbe! Keep the jars and lids submerged in hot water until you’re ready to fill them.

This ensures they remain sterile throughout the process.

Filling the Jars

Ladle the hot pear butter into the sterilized jars, leaving approximately ½ inch of headspace at the top. This headspace allows for expansion during the canning process and prevents jars from exploding (a truly dramatic event best avoided!). Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth, ensuring no sticky residue interferes with a proper seal. This meticulous cleaning is essential for a perfect seal.

Processing the Jars

Place the jars in a large canning pot, ensuring they are covered with at least an inch of water. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then process according to your recipe’s instructions. Processing times vary depending on altitude and jar size, so consulting a reliable canning guide is vital. Think of this as a spa day for your jars—a hot water bath to ensure their contents stay perfectly preserved.

For example, at a low altitude, pint jars might require 10 minutes of processing, while quart jars might need 15.

Sealing and Cooling

Once the processing time is complete, carefully remove the jars from the pot using tongs and place them on a towel-lined surface. Allow them to cool completely undisturbed. You should hear a satisfying “pop” as the jars seal. This audible confirmation is music to a canner’s ears. If a jar doesn’t seal, don’t despair! You can refrigerate and enjoy that jar sooner than expected.

Troubleshooting

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, lids fail to seal. This often happens due to insufficient headspace, unclean jar rims, or a faulty lid. If this occurs, simply refrigerate the unsealed jar and consume the pear butter within a week or two. It’s still delicious, just not shelf-stable. Consider it a delicious reward for your efforts! Remember, even experienced canners encounter occasional seal failures – it’s all part of the learning process.Making pear butter and canning it is a journey of patience and precision, rewarding you with the sweet taste of homemade goodness that lasts.

Embrace the process, learn from any setbacks, and enjoy the fruits (or should we say, pears?) of your labor! The satisfaction of opening a jar of your own pear butter months later is unparalleled. It’s a testament to your dedication and a delicious reminder of autumn’s bounty.

Storage and Shelf Life of Canned Pear Butter

Preserving the fruits of your labor—or rather, the delicious results of your pear butter-making efforts—requires understanding proper storage. Think of it as giving your culinary masterpiece the royal treatment it deserves, ensuring its longevity and delectable taste for months to come. Proper storage is key to maximizing the shelf life and preventing spoilage.Proper storage of your canned pear butter is crucial for maintaining its quality and safety.

Imagine opening a jar months later to find that vibrant, rich pear butter still as delicious as the day you canned it – that’s the magic of correct storage techniques. We’ll cover the best practices to ensure your hard work doesn’t go to waste.

Storage Conditions for Optimal Shelf Life

Storing your canned pear butter correctly is a simple yet vital step. A cool, dark, and dry pantry is ideal. Avoid areas exposed to direct sunlight or significant temperature fluctuations, as these can affect the quality and potentially even the safety of your preserves. Think of it like this: you wouldn’t leave a fine wine in direct sunlight, would you?

Crafting pear butter is a wonderfully rewarding experience; the sweet, spiced aroma filling your kitchen is pure magic. Think of the possibilities – smooth, rich spreads for toast, or maybe a unique glaze for your favorite baked goods. And speaking of sweet additions, if you’re looking for a delightful twist, check out this article on what can i make with leftover pineapple juice – the vibrant tang might just elevate your pear butter to a whole new level of deliciousness! Imagine the possibilities: a tropical pear butter adventure awaits! So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get canning!

Your pear butter deserves the same respect. Consistent temperatures are your friend. Basements, especially those with consistent temperature and humidity, often make excellent storage locations. Imagine those jars quietly aging to perfection, ready to be enjoyed whenever the mood strikes.

Identifying Spoiled or Unsafe Jars

While proper canning techniques drastically reduce the risk, it’s always wise to be vigilant. Before enjoying your pear butter, visually inspect each jar. Look for any bulging lids, leaks, or signs of mold. A bulging lid is a major red flag, indicating potential spoilage and possibly the presence of harmful bacteria. Discard any jar exhibiting these signs immediately.

Don’t risk it; your health is paramount. Even a tiny amount of mold can contaminate the entire batch. Think of it as a preventative measure to safeguard your well-being. Trust your senses; if something seems off, err on the side of caution.

Expected Shelf Life of Properly Canned Pear Butter

Under ideal storage conditions, properly canned pear butter can last for 12 to 18 months, sometimes even longer. Imagine having a pantry stocked with this delicious spread, ready to be enjoyed on toast, crackers, or even as a unique glaze for roasted meats – a culinary treasure trove waiting to be discovered. This longevity is a testament to the power of proper canning techniques.

However, remember that taste and texture can change over time, even if the pear butter remains safe to consume. The flavor might mellow slightly with age, but that doesn’t mean it’s spoiled. It’s simply evolving. It’s a testament to the natural process of aging, adding a unique character to the taste.

Creative Uses for Pear Butter: Pear Butter Recipe Canning

Let’s move beyond the simple pleasure of spreading pear butter on toast (though, let’s be honest, that’s a pretty fantastic start!). This luscious fruit spread is a culinary chameleon, ready to transform your baking and even your savory dishes in surprising and delightful ways. Get ready to unleash your inner culinary artist!

The versatility of pear butter is truly remarkable. Its subtle sweetness, combined with its rich texture, lends itself to a wide array of applications, far exceeding its traditional role as a simple spread. From enhancing the flavor profile of baked goods to adding a unique depth to savory creations, pear butter proves itself an indispensable ingredient for both novice and experienced cooks alike.

Prepare to be amazed by the possibilities!

Incorporating Pear Butter into Baking Recipes

Pear butter’s smooth texture and delicate sweetness make it a superb addition to various baked goods. Its ability to maintain moisture also contributes to a delightful, tender crumb. Think of it as a secret weapon for elevating your cakes, muffins, and quick breads.

Imagine a moist and flavorful spice cake, where the subtle sweetness of pear butter complements the warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg. Or picture yourself biting into a tender muffin, the pear butter adding a burst of fruity goodness to each mouthful. The possibilities are endless, limited only by your imagination (and perhaps your pear butter supply!).

For example, substituting a portion of the oil or butter in a standard cake recipe with pear butter will not only add flavor but also increase the cake’s moisture content. A simple substitution of ¼ cup of oil with pear butter in a standard muffin recipe can yield surprisingly delicious results. The pear butter’s subtle sweetness and moistening properties enhance the overall texture and flavor profile of the baked goods.

Experimentation is key – you might discover your new favorite recipe!

Utilizing Pear Butter in Savory Dishes

While often associated with sweet treats, pear butter’s versatility extends to the savory realm. Its unique flavor profile, a harmonious blend of sweet and tart, lends itself beautifully to creating unexpected and delightful flavor combinations.

Think of pear butter as a secret ingredient that can elevate your culinary creations to new heights. Its rich, complex flavor adds depth and intrigue to both familiar and innovative dishes. The possibilities are endless, and the results are sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

For instance, a pear butter glaze brushed over roasted pork tenderloin creates a stunning balance of sweet and savory. The subtle sweetness of the pear butter complements the richness of the pork, while the tartness cuts through the fattiness, creating a harmonious and unforgettable culinary experience. Similarly, a pear butter reduction can be used as a sauce for grilled chicken or fish, offering a sophisticated and unexpected twist on classic dishes.

The possibilities are truly endless.

One particularly inspiring example involves using pear butter in a glaze for grilled duck breast. The sweetness of the pear butter beautifully complements the richness of the duck, creating a sophisticated and unforgettable flavor combination. The glaze adds a touch of elegance and refinement to the dish, elevating it from a simple protein to a culinary masterpiece.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! The unexpected pairings are often the most rewarding. Pear butter’s versatility opens up a world of culinary possibilities, waiting to be explored and enjoyed. Embrace the adventure, and discover your own signature pear butter creations.

Visual Guide: Pear Butter Texture and Consistency

Achieving the perfect pear butter consistency is a culinary quest! It’s a journey from raw, firm pears to a luscious spread, and understanding the visual cues along the way is key to pear butter perfection. This guide will illuminate the subtle—and sometimes not-so-subtle—differences in texture and appearance that indicate whether your pear butter is ready for canning or needs a little more simmering.The ideal homemade pear butter boasts a delightful balance: a smooth, velvety base punctuated by just enough texture to keep things interesting.

Think of it as a sophisticated dance between creamy smoothness and delightful bits of pear. It should spread easily, coating your toast or biscuit with effortless grace. It’s a culinary masterpiece that satisfies both the eye and the palate.

Smooth Pear Butter

Imagine a perfectly polished surface, reflecting light with a gentle sheen. This is the hallmark of smooth pear butter. There are no visible pear pieces; the fruit has completely broken down into a homogenous, almost satiny consistency. It’s luxurious, refined, and perfect for those who prefer a seamless spread. The color will be a rich, deep amber, possibly with hints of darker tones depending on the pear variety.

The smooth texture indicates a longer cooking time, allowing the pears to fully break down.

Chunky Pear Butter

In contrast to its smooth counterpart, chunky pear butter proudly showcases visible pieces of pear. These aren’t large chunks, mind you—think more along the lines of delicate flecks of pear adding a delightful textural contrast to the creamy base. This style provides a pleasing interplay of textures and is a testament to the quality of the pears used.

The color will still be a warm amber, but the visible pear pieces will add depth and visual interest. This consistency results from a shorter cooking time, preserving some of the pear’s original structure.

Undercooked Pear Butter

Undercooked pear butter presents a different story entirely. It will often appear watery and lack the rich, deep color of its fully cooked cousins. The pears will retain their shape, and the overall texture will be far too firm. It might even have a slightly grainy feel. Think of it as a culinary work in progress – it needs more time on the stove to reach its full potential.

The color will be lighter, more translucent and less appealing than well-cooked pear butter.

Overcooked Pear Butter

Overcooked pear butter, on the other hand, can be excessively thick and dark. It may even appear slightly burnt or caramelized around the edges. The texture will be very thick, potentially gluey or pasty, lacking the desirable creamy consistency. While the color may be intense, it might be too dark, suggesting over-browning. The taste may also be slightly bitter or acrid due to excessive cooking.

It’s a reminder that patience and attention are crucial to achieving the perfect pear butter. Think of it as a lesson in culinary balance – too much of a good thing can sometimes be… well, too much.

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