Description
Poached pears are a delicate and elegant dessert made by gently simmering firm pears in a flavorful liquid such as wine or juice, infused with warm spices and citrus zest. The pears absorb the aromatic syrup while becoming tender and beautifully flavored.
Ingredients
- 4 firm pears (Bosc, Anjou, or Bartlett), peeled with stems intact
- 2 cups red or white wine (or fruit juice for non-alcoholic version)
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3–4 whole cloves
- 1 star anise (optional)
- Zest of 1 orange or lemon
Instructions
- Peel the pears, leaving the stems intact. Set aside.
- In a large saucepan, combine wine (or juice), water, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise (if using), and citrus zest. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
- Add the peeled pears to the simmering liquid. Reduce heat to low, cover, and poach gently for 20–30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pears are tender but still hold their shape.
- Carefully remove the pears and set aside.
- Optional: Increase heat and simmer the poaching liquid for an additional 10–15 minutes until slightly thickened into a syrup.
- Serve the pears warm or chilled, drizzled with the reduced syrup. Garnish as desired.
Notes
Use cranberry, apple, or pomegranate juice for a non-alcoholic version.Enhance flavor with spices like vanilla bean, black peppercorns, or cardamom.Swap sugar with honey for a more floral, rich sweetness.Serve with whipped cream, ice cream, mascarpone, or chocolate drizzle for extra indulgence.Make ahead and refrigerate in syrup for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pear with syrup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
