Spiced Pears

Spiced Pears Recipe - A Delicious Asian-Australian-Oceanian Delight

Region / culture: Asia, Australia, Oceania | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spiced pears are a delicious and comforting dessert that is perfect for the fall and winter months. The warm spices and sweet pears create a flavorful and aromatic dish that is sure to impress your guests.

History

Spiced pears have been enjoyed for centuries, with variations of the recipe appearing in different cultures around the world. The combination of spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and star anise with sweet pears has been a popular dessert choice for many years.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Tie the spices in a muslin bag and place all ingredients into water, ensuring that the pears are fully covered.
Simmer until the liquid is reduced and starting to thicken.
Remove the muslin bag; then refrigerate and serve with custard and clotted cream.

Variations

Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy twist.
Try using different spices such as cardamom or ginger for a unique flavor profile.
Top the spiced pears with chopped nuts or granola for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

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

- Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences.

- You can also add a splash of brandy or rum to the poaching liquid for an extra kick of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the spiced pears warm with a dollop of custard or a scoop of clotted cream for a decadent dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Poaching is the best technique for cooking spiced pears, as it allows the flavors to infuse and the pears to soften without losing their shape.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have muslin bags, you can tie the spices in a piece of cheesecloth or simply add them directly to the poaching liquid and strain them out before serving.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the spiced pears ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the spiced pears in a shallow bowl with a drizzle of the poaching liquid and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Spiced pears pair well with a variety of desserts such as vanilla ice cream, pound cake, or shortbread cookies. They also go well with a glass of dessert wine or hot tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of spiced pears contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of spiced pears contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

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

Proteins

Spiced pears are not a significant source of protein, with less than 1 gram per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Pears are a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber, while the spices used in this recipe provide antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, be sure to check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are safe for your dietary needs.

Summary

Spiced pears are a relatively low-calorie dessert option that provides a good source of fiber and vitamin C.

Summary

Spiced pears are a delicious and comforting dessert that is perfect for the fall and winter months. With warm spices and sweet pears, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next dinner party.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was a cold winter day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret. As soon as I stepped into her warm and cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the most wonderful aroma. Margaret was busy at her stove, stirring a pot of simmering spiced pears.

I watched in awe as she carefully peeled and sliced the ripe pears, adding them to the pot along with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a touch of brown sugar. The scent of the spices filled the room, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Margaret smiled at me and handed me a spoon to taste the simmering mixture. The pears were tender and sweet, with a hint of warmth from the spices. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this delicious dish.

Margaret laughed at my enthusiasm and handed me a pen and paper. "Here, dear," she said. "I'll write down the recipe for you. It's been in my family for generations, and I'm sure you'll love it as much as we do."

I eagerly copied down the ingredients and instructions, feeling grateful for Margaret's generosity in sharing her family recipe with me. As I left her house that day, I promised myself that I would make spiced pears for my own family very soon.

When I got home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and getting to work in my own kitchen. As the pears simmered on the stove, filling my home with the comforting scent of cinnamon and cloves, I thought back to the day I first saw the recipe at Margaret's house.

I remembered how her eyes twinkled with joy as she shared her family's recipe with me. I felt a sense of pride knowing that I was now a part of the long line of cooks who had prepared this dish with love and care.

When the spiced pears were finally ready, I couldn't wait to taste them. The first bite brought back memories of that cold winter day at Margaret's house, and I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe to add to my collection.

Over the years, I have made spiced pears many times for my family and friends. Each time I prepare this dish, I think of Margaret and the special bond we share through our love of cooking and sharing recipes.

I have since passed on the recipe for spiced pears to my own grandchildren, who now make it for their families with the same joy and enthusiasm that I did when I first learned how to make it. It warms my heart to see them carrying on the tradition and creating new memories with this timeless recipe.

As I sit here, surrounded by the delicious scent of spiced pears wafting from my kitchen, I can't help but feel grateful for the wonderful people and experiences that have brought this recipe into my life. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others and create lasting memories, and I am so thankful for the gift of this special dish that has been passed down through generations.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, looking for a new recipe to try, I encourage you to give spiced pears a chance. Who knows, you may just find yourself creating new memories and forging special connections, just like I did all those years ago. Happy cooking!