Honey-Poached Asian Pears

1. 1

   Bring 4 cups water to a boil in large saucepan.

2. 2

   Remove from heat, add tea bags, cover, and steep 7 minutes.

3. 3

   Remove and discard tea bags.

4. 4

   Stir in honey, pomegranate juice, ginger, lemon peel, and peppercorns (if using).

5. 5

   Peel Asian pears, but leave stems intact.

6. 6

   Scoop out cores from bottoms, and drop immediately into tea liquid to prevent browning.

7. 7

   Bring liquid to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, and poach pears 30 minutes, turning occasionally.

8. 8

   Remove pan from heat, cool pears in liquid, then transfer pears to plate.

9. 9

   Strain poaching liquid, discard solids, and return liquid to saucepan.

10. 10

    Simmer over medium heat 20 to 30 minutes, or until reduced and syrupy.

11. 11

    To serve: pour 1/4 cup syrup into each serving bowl, top with 1 pear, and sprinkle with pine nuts.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.