Tea-Spiced Poached Pears

Description

Source: Company's Coming Entertaining For The Holidays - Jean Pare

These subtly spiced pears are brightened with a sweet syrup drizzle. A light, not-too-sweet option to finish off those large feasts with the family.

Ingredients

• 3 cups (750 ml) water
• 1/2 cup (125 ml) granulated sugar
• 2 cinnamon sticks (4 inches, 10 cm, each)
• 1/2 tsp. (2 ml) whole black peppercorns
• 4 whole cloves
• 4 medium peeled firm pears, halved and cores removed
• 2 orange pekoe tea bags
• 2 tsp. (10 ml) lemon juice

Directions

1. Combine first 5 ingredients in large saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil.
3. Add pears and tea bags.
4. Reduce heat to medium.
5. Boil gently, uncovered, for about 10 minutes until pears are almost tender.
6. Remove from heat.
7. Remove and discard tea bags.
8. Let stand, uncovered, for about 20 minutes until pears are tender.
9. Transfer pears with slotted spoon to cutting board.
10. Remove and discard cinnamon, cloves and peppercorns.
11. Bring cooking liquid to a boil on medium.
12. Boil gently for about 20 minutes until reduced to about 1 cup (250 ml).
13. Add lemon juice.
14. Stir.
15. Cut pear halves into thin slices, leaving top intact.
16. Fan pear halves on 4 serving plates.
17. Drizzle with tea mixture.

Serves 4