Stewed Pears (Pere Cotte)
Category: Desserts
Servings: 2
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Williams Pears | 2 whole |
| Star Anise | 5 pieces |
| Cinnamon Sticks | 2 sticks |
| Water | 500 g |
| Sugar | 300 g |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Pears: Begin by peeling the pears using a vegetable peeler, ensuring you leave the stem intact for a more rustic presentation.
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Make the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves. Add the star anise and cinnamon sticks to the mixture, bringing it to a simmer over medium heat. Allow the syrup to cook for about 10-15 minutes, letting the flavors infuse. The syrup should have a subtle, warm aroma from the spices.
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Cook the Pears: Gently lower the peeled pears into the syrup, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let the pears cook for approximately 30 minutes or until they are tender, but still hold their shape. You can test this by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the pearβit should slide in easily but not fall apart.
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Strain and Separate: Once the pears are cooked, carefully remove them from the syrup. Strain the syrup to remove the star anise and cinnamon sticks, leaving a smooth, aromatic liquid.
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Serve: To serve, place a pear in a small bowl or dessert dish. Ladle a generous amount of the aromatic syrup over the pear. For an extra touch of warmth and spice, you can sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top.
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Optional Touch: If you desire a bit more flavor, feel free to add a dash of ground cinnamon or even a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts or whipped cream for contrast.
These Stewed Pears (Pere Cotte) offer a perfect balance of sweetness from the sugar and a spicy warmth from the star anise and cinnamon. The tender pears absorb the aromatic syrup, creating a rich and comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delightful treat as a simple yet elegant conclusion to your meal!
