Red Wine Poached Pears

Instructions

1. 1

   Start by peeling the Bosc pears, leaving the stems intact for presentation.

2. 2

   In a saucepan large enough to hold all the pears, combine the red wine, sugar, cinnamon stick, the split and scraped vanilla bean, zest of one orange, and cloves.

3. 3

   Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has fully dissolved.

4. 4

   Once the sugar is dissolved, place the pears in the saucepan, ensuring they are fully submerged in the wine mixture.

5. 5

   Simmer the pears for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a knife. Be sure to turn the pears occasionally to ensure even cooking and coloring.

6. 6

   Carefully remove the pears from the liquid and set aside.

7. 7

   Continue to simmer the poaching liquid until it reduces by half and becomes syrupy, which may take about 15-20 minutes.

8. 8

   Strain the syrup to remove the spices and vanilla bean.

9. 9

   Serve the pears with the red wine syrup drizzled over the top. Optionally, you can garnish with a little whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.