Poached Pears in Simple Syrup
Poached Pears are a light, flavorful dessert that is perfect after a hearty meal. The simplicity of poaching the pears in a sweetened syrup allows their natural flavors to shine. The ripeness of the pears will determine the exact poaching time, so it’s important to check for tenderness as they cook.
Servings: 5
Calories: 180kcal
Ingredients
- 4 firm-ripe Bartlett or Anjou pears
- 2 whole cloves
- 3 whole star anises
- 1 cup sugar, add 1/2 cup more if you like it sweeter
- 5 cups water
- 0.5 medium fresh lemon
Instructions
- Place the cloves, star anises, sugar and water in a large saucepan. Peel the pears. Add them into the saucepan. Cut the lemon into slices and place them on top. Cut a piece of parchment paper to the size of your pot. Cut a hole in the center and put it on top of the pears. Make sure the parchment lays flat on the surface of the liquid and holds down the pears.
- Bring to boil until sugar is dissolved. Simmer pears, gently turning them occasionally, until tender, 20 to 30 minutes depending on ripeness. Place the saucepan out of the heat and let the pears cool into the syrup.
Notes
Simple syrup, or sugar syrup, is very easy to make and is used in many cocktails such as Jell-O Shots, Daiquiris, and Hurricanes to add volume and sweetness. It's made with two parts sugar and 1 part water.