Pears in Red Wine

Pears in Red Wine Recipe - A French Delicacy

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Pears in Red Wine is a classic dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe pears with the rich flavors of red wine and citrus. This elegant dish is perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.

History

Pears in Red Wine is a traditional French dessert that dates back centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Burgundy region of France, where red wine is a staple in many dishes. The combination of pears and red wine creates a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor that is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

6 medium pears
2 cups red wine
1.5 cups water
0.5 cup sugar
0.5 cup firmly packed brown sugar
3 lemon slices
3 orange slices
orange rind strips (optional)

How to prepare

Peel the pears, removing the core from the bottom and leaving the stems intact.
Slice about 0.25 inch from the base of each pear so that they will sit flat.
Combine the next 6 ingredients in a dutch oven over medium heat, and simmer for 5 minutes.
Place the pears in the Dutch oven in an upright position; cover and continue to cook for 40 minutes or until the pears are tender.
Remove from heat and allow them to cool.
Cover and refrigerate for several hours.
To serve, spoon the pears and syrup into serving dishes and garnish with a strip of orange rind, if desired.

Variations

You can add a splash of brandy or cognac to the red wine mixture for a boozy twist.
Try using different fruits such as apples or peaches in place of pears for a unique flavor combination.
For a lighter version, you can use a white wine instead of red wine.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to choose ripe, but firm pears for this recipe to ensure they hold their shape during cooking.

- You can use any variety of red wine for this recipe, but a full-bodied red wine such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon works best.

- For a more intense flavor, you can add spices such as cinnamon, cloves, or star anise to the red wine mixture.

- Make sure to simmer the pears gently to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Serving Suggestions

Pears in Red Wine can be served on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect Pears in Red Wine is to simmer the pears gently in the red wine mixture until they are tender but still hold their shape.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have red wine on hand, you can use apple cider or grape juice as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

Pears in Red Wine can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Pears in Red Wine in elegant dessert bowls or on a decorative platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pears in Red Wine pairs well with a variety of cheeses such as blue cheese or brie, as well as a glass of port or dessert wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Pears in Red Wine can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Pears in Red Wine contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Pears in Red Wine contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Pears in Red Wine contains approximately 0 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Pears in Red Wine contains approximately 0 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Pears are a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

Pears in Red Wine is a low-fat, low-protein dessert that is rich in carbohydrates and vitamins. It is a delicious and healthy option for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth.

Summary

Pears in Red Wine is a delicious and elegant dessert that is perfect for any special occasion. With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, it is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Adele who lived in a quaint little village in the countryside. We spent the afternoon wandering through her garden, admiring the blooming flowers and the ripe fruits hanging from the trees.

As we made our way back to Adele's cozy kitchen, she mentioned that she had a special dessert planned for us that evening. She disappeared into the pantry and reemerged with a bottle of rich red wine and a basket of perfectly ripe pears. I watched with curiosity as she began to peel and slice the fruit, the sweet aroma filling the room.

Adele poured the wine into a saucepan and added a sprinkle of sugar and a dash of cinnamon. She gently placed the pears into the simmering liquid, and as they cooked, the deep red wine turned a beautiful shade of crimson. The scent of the bubbling wine and spices filled the air, and I knew I was in for a treat.

After a short while, Adele plated the pears and drizzled them with the reduced wine sauce. The pears glistened in the soft light of the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to take my first bite. The tender fruit melted in my mouth, the flavors of the wine and spices blending perfectly with the natural sweetness of the pears. It was a dessert unlike any I had ever tasted before.

I begged Adele for the recipe, eager to recreate the dish in my own kitchen. She chuckled and handed me a worn piece of paper with the ingredients and instructions scribbled in her elegant handwriting. I tucked the recipe into my purse, knowing that this dessert would become a staple in my own collection of recipes.

Over the years, I have made pears in red wine countless times, each batch bringing back memories of that magical summer day with Adele. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, each one falling in love with the simple yet elegant dessert.

One day, while visiting a bustling market in a nearby town, I stumbled upon a vendor selling the most exquisite pears I had ever seen. Their skins were a deep ruby red, and I knew immediately that they would be perfect for my beloved recipe. I bought a basketful of the fragrant fruit and hurried home to begin cooking.

I peeled and sliced the pears, marveling at their vibrant color and juicy texture. I poured a bottle of my favorite red wine into a pot, added a touch of sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon, and gently placed the pears into the simmering liquid. The wine turned a rich shade of red, infusing the fruit with its intoxicating aroma.

As the pears cooked, I thought back to that day with Adele, the sun shining down on us as we enjoyed her delicious dessert. I smiled as I plated the pears and drizzled them with the reduced wine sauce, the memories flooding back with each bite.

I have made pears in red wine for many years now, each batch a testament to the friendship and culinary inspiration that Adele has brought into my life. This recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy that can be found in a simple dish made with love and shared with those we hold dear.