Pears Poached in Red Wine and Cassis

1. 1

   Combine wine, honey, and creme de cassis in a medium saucepan.

2. 2

   Using the tip of a paring knife, scrape seeds from vanilla bean halves into wine and add pods.Add cinnamon stick and raisins and bring to a boil.

3. 3

   Reduce heat, cover and simmer 5 minutes.

4. 4

   Meanwhile, fill a bowl with water and add lemon juice.

5. 5

   Peel, quarter and core pears and drop into the acidulated water.

6. 6

   (This prevents the pears from discoloring.)

7. 7

   Drain pears and add to simmering wine.

8. 8

   Bring back to a simmer, cover and simmer 10 to 15 minutes more, until pears areslightly translucent.

9. 9

   Turn off heat and remove cinnamon stick.

10. 10

    Add almonds.

11. 11

    Serve warm or chilled.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.