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Ignore the blemishes, pears don’t have to be perfect to have pear-fect Poached Pears. While any pear can be poached, Bosc, Anjou and Asian are popular choices. The pears should be firm to the touch but not hard, think barely ripe. Why? Overripe pears can become mushy and lose their shape, while under-ripe won’t absorb the flavors as well. Our recipe is simple and easy because fruit juice is used as the poaching liquid. Poached Pears can be served as a dessert or added to salads, sandwiches & more.

Ingredients:

  • 3 large pears, firm (barely ripe)

  • 3 cups 100% fruit juice*

  • 1 cup water
  • optional: cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, vanilla, black pepper, pinch of salt, slice of orange.
Main Ingredient(s): Pears

Steps:

  • Prep pears by peeling, cutting in half (top to bottom) and removing the core (a melon baller works nicely for this).
  • Combine water and fruit juice in a 2-quart saucepan. Add in your choice of spices and vanilla. Over medium-high heat bring mixture to a boil and then lower heat to reduce to a simmer.
  • Add pears to hot poaching liquid, add additional liquid if needed to cover pears. Increase heat to achieve a soft boil. Cover pan, leaving slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. Poach pears for 10-15 minutes until fork tender.
  • Remove pears from liquid with a slotted spoon and transfer to a 1-quart jar or storage container. Allow poaching liquid to cool completely. Transfer the liquid to the container with the pears, cover and let the pears soak up the flavor. You may also make a fruit juice syrup by simmering the poaching liquid over low heat; let liquid reduce by half (about 20 minutes). This syrup can be used to serve with the pears, sweeten beverages or as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt.

Poaching: to cook food gently in liquid just below the boiling point (simmer). The poaching liquid will impart some of its flavor to the ingredient being poached.

*Clear fruit juices, like apple, will not alter the pear color,  colored fruit juices, like cranberry, will stain the fruit.  Cranberry and cinnamon make a great combination for fall and winter.

Halved Pear on cutting board with knife, seeds exposed
Pears simmering in poaching liquid
Pears in bowl with poaching liquid and orange twists
White plate with poached pears and fork and spoon
Published On: October 23, 2024