Pears In Red Wine With Ice Cream And Chocolate Sauce

1. 1

   Using a swivel-bladed paring knife, peel away the thin outer skin of the orange.

2. 2

   Do not use the pulp.

3. 3

   Put the skin in a casserole.

4. 4

   Put the remainder of the orange to another use.

5. 5

   To the casserole, add the peppercorns, sugar and red wine.

6. 6

   Bring the mixture to the boil.

7. 7

   Meanwhile, peel the pears.

8. 8

   Cut off and discard the stems.

9. 9

   Cut the pears in half lengthwise.

10. 10

    Using a melon ball scoop, cut away and discard the cores of each pear half.

11. 11

    Put the pear halves, cut side down, in the red-wine mixture.

12. 12

    Cover the pears with a clean linen cloth, letting it soak on top of the pears in the wine.

13. 13

    Bring to the boil and cook 15 minutes.

14. 14

    Remove from the heat and let cool.

15. 15

    Refrigerate until ready to serve.

16. 16

    Meanwhile, put the chocolate in a saucepan and place the saucepan in a slightly larger basin of water.

17. 17

    Bring the water to the boil and let the chocolate melt.

18. 18

    Add the cream and Grand Marnier and stir to blend.

19. 19

    Spoon one scoop of ice cream onto each of 12 individual dessert dishes.

20. 20

    Top each scoop with a pear half, cut side down.

21. 21

    Spoon the hot chocolate sauce over all and serve immediately.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.