Poached Pears in Red Wine: A Simple yet Elegant Dessert
When it comes to effortless elegance, poached pears in red wine are truly a standout. The deep, fragrant flavors of the red wine and spices infuse the pears, transforming them into a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or simply as a treat when you want to add a bit of sophistication to the table.
Ingredients
- 2 Bosc pears, peeled (leave the stems intact)
- 1 cup red wine (choose a dry, bold wine like Merlot or Cabernet)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- Orange rind (twist to release the oils)
- Juice of 1 blood orange (or any orange you have on hand)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
- ¼ teaspoon clove powder
- Honeycomb or vanilla bean ice cream, for serving
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions
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Prepare the Pears
Start by peeling the Bosc pears, leaving the stems intact for a refined presentation. -
Make the Poaching Liquid
In a saucepan, pour the red wine, then add the sugar, a twist of orange rind to release its oils, and the fresh orange juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then add cinnamon and clove powder, creating a warm and spicy infusion. -
Poach the Pears
Place the pears in the pan and bring to a gentle simmer. Turn the pears occasionally to allow them to absorb the deep red color evenly. Let them poach for 20-30 minutes until tender. -
Cool and Serve
Once tender, remove the pears from the heat and let them cool in the poaching liquid for at least 30 minutes. This rest allows the flavors to deepen. Serve with a scoop of honeycomb or vanilla bean ice cream, and garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness.
A Dish Rooted in Simple Sophistication
This poached pear recipe draws on the tradition of simple, elegant desserts that rely on quality ingredients and refined flavors. The red wine and spices create a warm, fragrant syrup that perfectly complements the delicate sweetness of the pears. Pairing it with a scoop of creamy ice cream or honeycomb adds a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
Whether served on its own or as the finale to a special dinner, these poached pears embody the essence of understated elegance—proof that sometimes, the simplest dishes make the most memorable meals.