How to Make French Poached Pears in Red Wine
French poached pears in red wine are a delightful dessert that combines the richness of red wine with the sweetness of ripe pears. This elegant dish not only impresses guests but also creates a wonderful aroma in your kitchen. Here’s how to make this classic dish in a few simple steps.
Ingredients Needed
- 4 ripe pears (Bosc or Anjou work best)
- 1 bottle of good quality red wine (750 ml)
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2-3 whole cloves
- 1 star anise (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving (optional)
Instructions for Poaching Pears
Step 1: Prepare the Pears
Start by peeling the pears, leaving the stems intact for presentation. Cut a small slice from the bottom of each pear to help them stand upright in the poaching liquid.
Step 2: Make the Poaching Liquid
In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, granulated sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, and lemon juice. Stir well over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 3: Poach the Pears
Once the mixture comes to a gentle simmer, carefully add the pears. The pears should be fully submerged in the liquid. You can use a plate to keep them submerged if necessary.
Allow the pears to poach for about 20-30 minutes, or until they become tender but still hold their shape. Make sure to turn the pears occasionally to ensure even coloring.
Step 4: Cool and Reduce
After poaching, carefully remove the pears from the liquid and transfer them to a plate to cool. Increase the heat and let the poaching liquid simmer until it reduces to a syrupy consistency, about 10-15 minutes. This step concentrates the flavors of the spices and wine.
Step 5: Serve the Pears
Once the syrup is ready, pour it over the cooled pears. You can serve them warm or chilled, paired with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Tips for Perfect Poached Pears
- Choose ripe but firm pears to avoid them becoming mushy during the poaching process.
- Experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute red wine with grape juice or a non-alcoholic red wine alternative.
French poached pears in red wine are a timeless dessert that showcases your culinary skills while providing a delicious finish to any meal. Follow these steps and enjoy a taste of France in your home!