French Orange Poached Pears (Poire Avec Orange)

Ingredients and Weight:

• 8 large ripe pears (1.5 lbs)
• 2 cups dry white wine
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 vanilla bean, split and scraped
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 star anise
• 2 cloves

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30-45 minutes

Difficulty Level: Easy (1)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Peel and core the pears, leaving the stems intact.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the white wine, orange juice, sugar, honey, vanilla bean, cinnamon stick, star anise, and cloves.
3. Bring the poaching liquid to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Gently place the pears into the poaching liquid.
5. Cover and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Remove the pears from the poaching liquid and set aside to cool slightly.
7. Strain the poaching liquid into a clean saucepan and discard the spices.
8. Reduce the poaching liquid over medium heat until thickened and syrupy.
9. Drizzle the thickened poaching liquid over the pears before serving.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 150-200 per pear
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 1g
• Fiber: 5g

Dish Characteristics:

• Sweet and tart
• Aromatic
• Elegant

User Comments:

• "Absolutely delicious! The pears were perfectly poached and the orange poaching liquid was so flavorful."
• "I love the subtle sweetness and the hint of spice from the star anise."
• "This dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use ripe but firm pears for best results.
• Do not overcook the pears, as they will become mushy.
• If the poaching liquid gets too thick, add a little water.
• Serve the pears warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or ice cream.