Pears Poached in Wine

1. 1

   Peel the pears, leaving the stems attached.

2. 2

   Cut a small slice from the bottom of each so that the pears will stand up.

3. 3

   Stir the wine, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in a large saucepan over low heat until the sugar dissolves.

4. 4

   Add the pears to the saucepan and cover.

5. 5

   Simmer, frequently turning and basting the pears, for 20 minutes, or until the pears are tender.

6. 6

   Using a slotted spoon, transfer the pears to a deep serving dish.

7. 7

   Discard the cinnamon stick and cloves.

8. 8

   Boil until the wine mixture is syrupy and reduced by about one-third.

9. 9

   Pour the syrup over the pears.

10. 10

    Serve warm or let cool in the syrup and refrigerate until chilled.

11. 11

    Variation: Pears in White Wine

12. 12

    Substitute white wine or cider for the red wine, and the result will be paler and more golden in color.

13. 13

    Choose a sweet white wine or cider.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.