Poached Pears

Poached Pears, Step by Step

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1. Put the water, cinnamon, cloves, lemon zest, lemon juice, maple syrup and vanilla in a pan wide enough to hold the pears in one layer. Bring to a simmer.

   Mark done

2. Lower in the pear halves, cut side down. Cover with a round of baking parchment with a small hole in the middle, to keep the pears submerged.

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3. Simmer gently for 20 minutes, turning once, until a knife slides into the thickest part with little resistance.

   Mark done Start 20 min timer

4. Lift out the pears. Simmer the liquid for 5 minutes to thicken it slightly, then spoon over the pears. Serve warm or chilled.

   Mark done Start 5 min timer

Notes for Getting It Right

• Peel the pears just before cooking, since peeled pears brown quickly; keep them in lemon water until then.
• If the pears float, weigh them down with a small plate.
• Keep the leftover syrup; it is good over yogurt or porridge.

What to Serve with Poached Pears

• A spoonful of Greek yogurt
• A few chopped almonds
• A cup of tea

Keeping and Reheating

Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days, in the poaching liquid.

Questions About Poached Pears

What's in a Serving

Per serving, calculated from the ingredient list. Treat these as an estimate — brands and cuts vary.