Poached Pears Grape Syrup (Printable version)
Juicy pears gently simmered in spiced grape juice syrup for a light, naturally sweet finish.
# What you'll need:
→ Fruit
01 - 4 ripe but firm pears, peeled, halved, and cored
→ Syrup
02 - 3 cups red grape juice
03 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1 cinnamon stick
05 - 1 star anise
06 - 1 strip lemon zest
→ Garnish
07 - Fresh mint leaves
08 - Crushed pistachios or toasted almonds
# Directions:
01 - Combine the grape juice, sugar, cinnamon stick, star anise, and lemon zest in a large saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar completely dissolves.
02 - Carefully add the pear halves to the simmering syrup, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid.
03 - Maintain a gentle simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, turning the pears occasionally to ensure even cooking, until they are tender but still hold their shape.
04 - Remove the pears using a slotted spoon and set aside. Increase the heat to medium-high and boil the syrup for 5 to 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
05 - Discard the cinnamon stick, star anise, and lemon zest. Return the pears to the reduced syrup and allow to cool to room temperature, or refrigerate until chilled.
06 - Plate the pears drizzled with the aromatic syrup. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and crushed nuts if desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The grape juice creates this gorgeous ruby syrup that feels fancy but costs pennies compared to wine
- These pears taste like something from a restaurant dessert menu but take almost zero effort
02 -
- Do not rush the simmering step or your pears might cook unevenly and turn mushy on the outside while staying raw inside
- The syrup continues to thicken as it cools, so do not reduce it too much or you will end up with fruit jelly instead of sauce
03 -
- Add a few whole cloves or a cardamom pod if you want to experiment with different spice combinations
- A splash of vanilla extract in the syrup makes these taste even more special and luxurious