Must-Try Champagne Poached Pears
By: Leah Rodrigues
Published: September 14, 2011

Poached pears is a simple and elegant dessert that will impress anyone who eats it.  Peeled pears (stem intact) are poached in a flavorful liquid made from champagne, sugar, spices, and lemon zest.  I love to serve the pears sliced lengthwise with mascarpone cheese in the middle with a drizzle of reserved syrup.  If you have any leftover, store the pears whole in the poaching liquid.
Champagne Poached Pears
Ingredients:



8 Bosc or Bartlett pears
1 bottle champagne or sparkling wine - (750 ml)
1 cup sugar
1 cinnamon stick - (3" long)
5 whole cloves
Zest from 1/2 lemon
 
Directions:
 

Peel and core pears, leaving stems intact. Cut a thin slice from bottom of each pear, forming a base for pears to stand on. Combine all ingredients in a Dutch oven or other nonreactive large pot. Bring to a simmer and then carefully add pears. Simmer for 15 minutes or until pears are tender.

   
Serve pears warm.


   
This recipe yields 8 servings.


   
Comments: For an elegant presentation, serve individually in teacups.