Pickled Pears

1. 1

   Combine pickling spices, cloves, gingerroot, and lemon; tie in a cheesecloth bag. Set aside.

2. 2

   Peel pears, leaving whole with stem intact. Set aside.

3. 3

   Combine spice bag, sugar, vinegar, water, and cinnamon candy, if desired, .in a stainless steel stockpot. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add pears, a few at a time; simmer 15 minutes or just until tender. Remove from heat; cool pears in syrup to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate 12 to 18 hours. Remove spice bag; discard. Bring mixture to a boil.

4. 4

   Quickly pack pears into hot sterilized jars, and cover with syrup, leaving 1/2-inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Cover with metal lids, and screw bands tight. Process pears in boiling-water bath 15 minutes.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.