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1
In a deep-sided pan, heat the apple juice or apple cider and the sugar together on a high heat with the bay leaves, the vanilla bean and seeds, the cloves and a few strips of peel cut from the lemon or orange.
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2
Cook for 5 minutes, or until the sugar has dissolved into a light, thin syrup.
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3
While thats happening, carefully peel the pears so they look beautiful, leaving their stalks on if you can.
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4
Take the pan off the heat and sit the pears inside, taking care not to splash the hot syrup but making sure the pears get covered.
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5
Scrunch and wet a piece of parchment paper and place it on top of the pears, forming a sort of lid, so they are completely covered.
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6
Turn the heat down to low and simmer slowly for about 20 minutes, or until the pears are lovely and soft but still holding their shape nicely.
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7
To test whether theyre done, just poke one with a small knife until you hit the core if the knife slides in easily, theyre good to go.
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8
Carefully move the pears to the middle of a cute serving platter using a slotted spoon, and just pop in the oven at the lowest temperature to keep warm.
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9
Turn the heat under the pan up to high and reduce the syrup down for 30 minutes, or until its just thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
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10
Stir it occasionally to make sure it isnt catching.
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11
At this point, add the brambles and cook for 5 minutes, or until the syrup turns an amazing color.
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12
To serve, take the platter out of the oven and carefully pour the syrup all over the top of the pears.
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13
Blob some clotted cream, whipped cream or ice cream on the side, then put right in the middle of the table.
