Discovering the Recipe
I remember the first time I made Quick Poached Pears. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I wanted to create something special for a dinner party. The thought of an elegant yet simple dessert led me to poached pears, a classic French treat. The Quick Poached Pears recipe promised sophistication in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for my busy schedule.
The Magic of Poaching
As I peeled and cored the pears, I couldn’t help but marvel at their natural beauty. I chose Bosc pears for their firm texture, which I knew would hold up well during poaching. The aroma of the poaching liquid—whether it was the rich notes of red wine or the fragrant infusion of Earl Grey tea—filled my kitchen with warmth. The process of creating Quick Poached Pears was as delightful as the final dish itself.
A Versatile Delight
One of the things I love most about Quick Poached Pears is their versatility. Whether I’m hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dessert never fails to impress. I often serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence. The pears can also be baked into a gluten-free tart or paired with cheesecake for a more elaborate dessert.
Sharing the Experience
Sharing the recipe for Quick Poached Pears on my blog has been a joy. I’ve received countless messages from readers who have fallen in love with this simple yet elegant dessert. Some have experimented with different teas and spices, creating their unique versions. Knowing that my recipe has brought a bit of sweetness and elegance to their lives is truly rewarding. Quick Poached Pears are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of simple, beautiful cooking.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Quick Poached Pears
- Choosing Pears: Bosc pears are ideal for poaching because they hold their shape well and have a sweet, buttery flavor. If you can’t find Bosc, Anjou or Bartlett pears are good alternatives.
- Even Cooking: To ensure even cooking, use pears that are similar in size and ripeness. This helps them cook at the same rate.
- Peeling Pears: Use a vegetable peeler for peeling pears to get a smooth, even surface. A paring knife can be used to remove any remaining core bits.
- Monitoring Doneness: Check pears for doneness by inserting a knife or skewer. It should go in easily but the pear should still hold its shape.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices such as star anise, cardamom pods, or a small piece of fresh ginger for a unique twist.
- Poaching Liquid: After poaching, the liquid can be reduced to a syrup and drizzled over the pears for added sweetness and presentation.
- Presentation: Serve the pears with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Quick Poached Pears
4
servings15
minutes15
minutes150
kcal30
minutesDive into the elegance of poached pears with this quick and easy recipe! In just 30 minutes, you can create a sophisticated dessert that pairs beautifully with cheesecake or can be baked into a gluten-free tart. Whether you choose to poach your pears in wine or tea, this versatile recipe is sure to impress. Perfect for dinner parties or a cozy night in, these poached pears are a delightful treat.
Ingredients
- Pears
4 medium Bosc pears, peeled, halved, and cored
- Sweetener
3/4 cup organic cane sugar
- Tea-Poached Pears
3 tbsp loose leaf tea (Earl Grey or Jasmine)
4 cups hot water
- Wine-Poached Pears
2 cups dry white or red wine
2 cups water
- Alternative Ingredients:
Pears: Use apples if pears are unavailable.
Sugar: Substitute with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor.
Tea Leaves: Use chamomile or green tea as alternatives.
Wine: Use apple cider or grape juice for a non-alcoholic version.
Spices: Use star anise or cardamom pods instead of allspice and cloves.
Directions
- Steep Tea: In a large heatproof pitcher, pour the hot water over the tea leaves and let it steep for about 5 minutes. Strain the brewed tea into a wide skillet or large pot. Add the sugar and vanilla pods and bring to a boil. Stir in the lemon juice.
- Combine Ingredients: In a wide skillet or large pot, mix the wine, water, sugar, cinnamon stick, allspice berries, cloves, and orange zest. Bring to a boil. Carefully lower the pear halves into the boiling liquid using a large spoon. Ensure the liquid covers the pears; add more water if necessary.
- Simmer Pears: Reduce heat to medium and simmer until pears are tender but still hold their shape, about 8-12 minutes. Turn pears halfway through cooking. Remove pears from the poaching liquid and serve warm.
- Serving Later: Let pears cool in their poaching liquid if not using immediately. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 1 year. When ready to serve, remove pears from the liquid. Simmer the poaching liquid until it thickens into a syrup (about 10-20 minutes).
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- large pot
- measuring cups and spoons
- large spoon
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 150kcal
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Potassium: 150mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 30g
- Vitamin A: 2IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 2mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQs- Quick Poached Pears
Can I use ripe pears for poaching?
It’s best to use firm, slightly underripe pears for poaching. Ripe pears can become too soft and fall apart during cooking.
What type of wine should I use for poaching pears?
Both dry white and red wines work well. For white wine, Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio are good choices. For red wine, Merlot or Pinot Noir are excellent options.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, poached pears can be made ahead of time. Store them in their poaching liquid in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Reheat gently before serving or serve cold.
What can I do with leftover poaching liquid?
The leftover poaching liquid can be reduced to make a syrup. Simmer it until it thickens, then drizzle over the pears or use it as a sauce for desserts like ice cream or cheesecake.
Are there non-alcoholic alternatives to wine for poaching pears?
Yes, you can use apple cider, grape juice, or even a strong brewed tea as a non-alcoholic alternative to wine. Adjust the sweetness as needed.
