Poached Pear

French Poached Pear Recipe with Rosé Wine

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 8

Introduction

Poached pears are a classic dessert that is both elegant and delicious. The pears are gently simmered in a sweet syrup until they are tender and infused with flavor. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a simple weeknight treat.

History

Poached pears have been enjoyed for centuries, with variations of the dish appearing in different cultures around the world. The process of poaching fruit dates back to medieval times when it was a popular way to preserve fruit. Today, poached pears are a popular dessert in many fine dining restaurants and home kitchens.

Ingredients

8 bartlett pears
8 whole cloves
1 cup of sugar
0.75 cup of water
0.75 cup of rosé wine
6 drops of red food coloring (optional, gives a pink color)

How to prepare

Peel the pears while leaving the stem attached.
Stick 1 clove into each pear and place them in a deep pot.
Add sugar, wine, water, and food coloring to achieve the desired color.
Simmer the pears gently until they become clear and the syrup thickens, basting occasionally.
Chill the pears.
Serve the pears cold as a salad or dessert.

Variations

You can experiment with different types of pears, such as Anjou or Bosc, for a unique flavor profile.
Try adding different spices to the poaching liquid, such as ginger, cardamom, or nutmeg, for a more complex flavor.
For a boozy twist, you can substitute the rosé wine with a sweet dessert wine or brandy.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to choose ripe but firm pears for this recipe. Overripe pears will become mushy when poached.

- You can customize the flavor of the poaching liquid by adding spices such as cinnamon, star anise, or vanilla.

- To prevent the pears from browning, you can add a splash of lemon juice to the poaching liquid.

- Make sure to baste the pears occasionally while they are simmering to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the syrup.

Serving Suggestions

Poached pears can be served on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They can also be served alongside a cheese platter for a sophisticated dessert option.

Cooking Techniques

The key to perfectly poached pears is to simmer them gently over low heat until they are tender but still hold their shape. Be sure to keep an eye on them and baste them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have rosé wine on hand, you can substitute it with white wine or apple juice. You can also use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can poach the pears ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat them gently before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the poached pears on a platter and drizzle them with the syrup for an elegant presentation. You can also garnish them with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Pairing Recommendations

Poached pears pair well with a variety of cheeses, such as blue cheese, goat cheese, or brie. They also go well with a glass of dessert wine or champagne.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover poached pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of poached pears contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of poached pears contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

There is minimal fat in this recipe, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving.

Proteins

There is no significant source of protein in poached pears, with less than 1 gram of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Pears are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. They also contain dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, individuals with fruit allergies should exercise caution.

Summary

Poached pears are a low-calorie dessert option that is rich in vitamins and minerals. They are a healthy and delicious treat that can be enjoyed by all.

Summary

Poached pears are a simple yet elegant dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy these tender and flavorful pears on their own or with your favorite accompaniments for a delicious treat.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for poached pears. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a remarkable cook, and I was always in awe of the way she effortlessly moved around the kitchen, creating dishes that seemed to be straight out of a fancy restaurant.

One day, as I was flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my grandmother, I came across a recipe for poached pears. The picture in the book was so beautiful, with the pears glistening in a sweet syrup, that I knew I had to try making it myself. I asked my grandmother about the recipe, and she smiled warmly before telling me that she had learned it from a dear friend many years ago.

Her friend, Mrs. Jenkins, was a renowned cook in their small town, and she had generously shared her recipe for poached pears with my grandmother. It was a simple recipe, but one that required patience and care to execute perfectly. I listened intently as my grandmother recounted how Mrs. Jenkins had shown her the exact method for poaching the pears to perfection, ensuring that they were tender and infused with all the flavors of the syrup.

Excited to try my hand at making poached pears, I gathered all the ingredients needed and set to work in the kitchen. I peeled and cored the pears, carefully simmered them in a mixture of water, sugar, and spices, and watched as they transformed into soft, fragrant delights. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

When the pears were finally ready, I spooned them onto a plate and drizzled them with the syrup. The first bite was pure bliss - the pears were tender and sweet, with just a hint of spice from the cinnamon and cloves. I was transported back to my grandmother's kitchen, where the scent of poached pears always filled the air during the fall season.

From that day on, poached pears became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make them for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply as a treat for myself. Each time I made the dish, I would think of my grandmother and Mrs. Jenkins, and how their shared love of cooking had been passed down to me through this simple yet elegant recipe.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch with a splash of brandy or a sprinkle of toasted nuts. But the essence of the dish remains the same - a tribute to the tradition and memories that have been woven into every bite.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover the recipe for poached pears, I am filled with gratitude for the knowledge and wisdom that has been passed down to me through generations. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my past, to honor the traditions of my family, and to create new memories for the future.

And so, as I prepare a batch of poached pears for a family dinner tonight, I know that each bite will be a reminder of the love and care that went into making this dish. It is a simple pleasure, but one that brings me immense joy and satisfaction, knowing that I am carrying on a tradition that has been cherished for so many years.