Drunken Pears Recipe

Ingredients :

4 firm fresh pears (conference or comice)

8 whole cloves

250ml red wine

250ml orange juice

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

2 slices lemon

2 tbsp soft brown sugar

2 tsp slivered almonds, toasted - garnish

1. Peel whole pears, leaving stems intact.

2. Press 2 cloves into each pear.

3. Stand the pears upright in a saucepan just large enough to hold them.

4. Add wine, orange juice, cinnamon, lemon sliced and sugar.

5. Bring to the boil, reduce heat and simmer gently for 45 minutes.

6. Turn pears frequently as they cook, so they color evenly.

7. Use a slotted spoon to lift out pears carefully.

8. Remove cloves.

9. Bring the cooking liquid to a rapid boil.

10. Boil till reduced by half to make a sauce.

11. Serve the pears warm or chilled, with the sauce poured over.

12. Top with a sprinkling of toasted almond silvers.

13. Accompany with Cream Cheese Topping.

This elegant and delicious dessert is specially useful for the busy cook - it can be prepared up to 3 days before it is to be served. The alcohol in the burgundy evaporates in the cooking process, so you won't be breaking the Golden Rules.

To vary - cut the cooked pears in half, lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the core, leaving a neat hollow. Use 4 tbsp of Cream Cheese Topping  to fill the pears. Sprinkle with toasted almond silvers. Serve accompanied by the sauce.

To store - Drunken Pears will keep well, covered and refrigerated, for up to 3 days.

Serves 4

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