ISO: tips and recipe for poached pears

[Missi]

I have wanted to try to make poached pears for awhile now, but have been intimidated. Do any of you have a tried and true recipe and some tips for me? Can you also recommend which pears work the best? TIA!!!!!!!!

[Jessica]

Here's the recipe I use, Missi. I don't have any real knowledge of different types of pears--I just buy what is available.

Peel, core and quarter pears (I use about four). You can use ripe or slightly underripe pears, but very soft ones will turn to mush. Place them in a saucepan and cover with orange juice. Add a cinnamon stick, a few whole cloves and a couple cardamom pods. Simmer until pears are soft (15 min-1 hour depending on how you like them and how firm the fresh pears are). Remove pears and keep cooking juice till it is a bit syrupy. Pour syrup over pears and serve warm or cold.

I make these for my father, who is diabetic.

[Missi]

Thanks Jessica! Your recipe sounds so easy and VERY yummy!!! Thanks again, I will be trying them soon!

[JHaris]

Love pears and this recipe sounds good.

For an additional variation I have been, for a "sweet attack snack" or dessert poaching slices of apple, pear or banana in orange juice, (fresh squeezed is the best), with some dark brown sugar, small piece of vanilla bean and a splash of rum. Reduce the liquid and then put in individual serving bowls depending on whether you choose not to hog the whole thing. Then just a "dollop" of light sour cream and it is heaven!!!!

Joan