Poached Pears Belle Helene

Ingredients and Weight:

• Pears: 8, fresh and ripe
• Vanilla extract: 2 tsp
• Sugar: 1 cup
• Water: 3 cups
• Fresh lemon juice: 2 tbsp
• Cinnamon sticks: 3-4 pieces
• Nutmeg: a small piece, freshly ground
• Red wine (optional): 1/4 cup

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 30-40 minutes
• Total: 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Prepare the poaching liquid by combining water, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon sticks, and nutmeg in a large pot and bringing it to a boil.
2. Once the liquid starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the vanilla extract and red wine (if using) to the poaching liquid.
4. Peel the pears, leaving the stems on for presentation.
5. Gently place the pears into the poaching liquid and ensure they are fully submerged. If not, use a plate or lid to weight them down.
6. Poach the pears for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until they are tender but still hold their shape.
7. Remove the pears from the poaching liquid and let them cool slightly before serving.
8. Serve the Poached Pears Belle Helene warm or chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.

Nutritional Information: (Per serving)

• Calories: 200-250 (depending on serving size and additional toppings)
• Fat: 3-5g
• Carbohydrates: 45-55g
• Protein: 2-3g

Dish Characteristics:

• The pears are cooked to perfection, resulting in a tender and juicy texture.
• The flavor is a combination of sweet, vanilla, and slightly spicy due to the cinnamon and nutmeg.
• The dish is elegant yet simple to prepare, making it perfect for special occasions or as a treat.

User Comments:

1. "The poached pears were amazing! The flavor was rich and the texture was perfect."
2. "I loved the combination of flavors in this dish. It was a pleasant surprise."
3. "The pears were cooked to perfection and the presentation was elegant."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use ripe pears for best results.
• Adjust the sugar quantity based on your desired sweetness.
• If you want to add a touch of alcohol to the dish, use a dry red wine that you prefer. Make sure it is suitable for cooking.