Ginger and Cinnamon Poached Pears
A fragrant and elegant dessert made with poached pears, infused with ginger and cinnamon, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces pears (Bosc or Anjou, firm, peeled, stems intact)
- 3 cups water
- 1 inch ginger (fresh, peeled and thinly sliced)
- 1 stick cinnamon
- 3 whole cloves
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 2 tsp honey (or a pinch of stevia, optional to adjust sweetness)
- 1 pinch lemon zest (or a few thin slices of lemon)
Instructions
Preparation and Simmering
- In a large saucepan, combine the water, ginger slices, cinnamon stick, cloves, vanilla, and honey or stevia, if using. Stir the mixture together, then bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Once the liquid is simmering, carefully place the peeled pears into the poaching liquid. Cover the saucepan and allow the pears to simmer for 20-30 minutes. Check for tenderness by piercing them with a fork; they should be tender but not mushy.
- After removing the pears from the saucepan, you may choose to continue simmering the poaching liquid for several minutes to reduce it slightly; this intensifies the flavors.
Serving
- Serve the pears in bowls, generously drizzling some of the reduced poaching liquid over each one. Finish with fresh lemon zest for a bright touch.
Notes
For added richness, try experimenting with spices like star anise or nutmeg. Remember to occasionally turn the pears during cooking for even flavor infusion and color. The dessert can be served warm or chilled, with optional whipped cream or ice cream.