Pears are a delicious and versatile fruit and poaching them brings out their natural sweetness while adding a touch of sophistication. This poached pear recipe is perfect for Lykkers looking for an elegant dessert that’s easy to make but impressive to serve.
Whether enjoyed on its own, with a drizzle of syrup, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, poached pears are a timeless classic. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that will add a gourmet flair to your next meal.
Ingredients
4 firm, ripe pears (Bosc or Anjou pears work well)
4 cups water or 960 ml
1 cup sugar or 800 gr
1 cinnamon stick
1 vanilla bean (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
Optional: Apple juice or pomegranate juice for a richer flavor
Steps
1. Prepare the Pears
*Begin by peeling the pears, leaving the stems intact for presentation. Cut a small slice off the bottom of each pear to help them stand upright.
2. Create the Poaching Liquid
*In a large saucepan, combine water, sugar, cinnamon stick, vanilla bean, lemon zest, and lemon juice. If using juice, replace 2 cups of water with apple or pomegranate juice for a deeper flavor and color.
*Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
3. Poach the Pears
*Add the peeled pears to the poaching liquid. Make sure they are fully submerged. If needed, add a little more water to cover the pears completely.
*Simmer the pears gently for 20-30 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Be sure to rotate the pears occasionally to ensure even poaching.
4. Cool and Serve
*Remove the pears from the liquid and allow them to cool. You can reduce the poaching liquid by simmering it further until it thickens into a syrupy consistency. This syrup can be drizzled over the pears for added sweetness.
*Serve the pears either warm or chilled, drizzled with the syrup. They pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts for texture.
Price and Availability
The ingredients for this poached pear recipe are simple and affordable:
Pears typically cost around $1-2 each depending on your location and the season.
Basic ingredients like sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla can be found at any local grocery store, while vanilla beans can be pricier, around $6-10 per bean.
If you’re looking for high-quality pears and spices, visit local farmers' markets or specialty stores like Whole Foods or Trader Joe's, where you’ll find fresh, organic produce. For a gourmet twist, consider using high-end vanilla beans from Madagascar or Tahiti, available online at specialty food retailers like Spice House.
Best Places to Enjoy Poached Pears
If you’d like to enjoy a perfectly poached pear without making it at home, there are many fine dining restaurants and bistros that feature this dessert on their menus. Here are a few suggestions for Lykkers to explore:
1. Le Bernardin – New York City, USA
A Michelin-starred restaurant known for its elegant desserts, including poached fruit dishes. Poached pear desserts here can cost around $18-25.
2. La Tour d'Argent – Paris, France
One of the oldest restaurants in Paris, La Tour d'Argent often features poached pears as part of their dessert offerings, showcasing French culinary mastery. Expect to pay around €20-30 for a dessert of this caliber.
3. Balthazar – London, UK
A chic brasserie that serves a variety of seasonal desserts, including poached pear creations. Prices range from £10-15 per dessert.
Le Bernardin
La Tour d'Argent
Balthazar
Food Tour Tip for Lykkers
If you love exploring local flavors, consider joining a food tour that highlights regional produce and cooking techniques. In pear-growing regions like Oregon or Washington State, you’ll find tours that visit orchards and teach you how to make the best use of fresh fruit in your cooking.
For European Lykkers, tours in France or Italy often include stops at markets and vineyards where pears are used in desserts, paired with fine beverages, or incorporated into savory dishes.
Final Thoughts
Poached pears are the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining simplicity with elegance. Whether you’re making them at home or enjoying them at a fine restaurant, this dessert is sure to impress with its tender texture and sweet flavors. Lykkers, why not treat yourself to this delightful recipe or make it a part of your next food adventure?
