Sweet Simmered Pears in Syrup

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €3.13 · €0.78/serving

• 4 cups pure filtered water (use room temperature water for best results)Est. price €0.08–€0.25
• 1 1/4 cups pure cane sugar (organic sugar works well too)Est. price €0.75–€1.50
• Zest and juice of 1 fresh lemon (preferably organic for more flavor)Est. price €0.30–€0.80
• 4 medium pears of your choice (try Bosc, Bartlett, or Anjou varieties for a nice balance of sweetness and texture)Est. price €2.00–€4.00

Steps

1. 1

   In a sturdy pot, combine 4 cups of water with 1 1/4 cups of sugar and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, then mix in the zest and juice of 1 lemon. Prepare 4 medium pears (like Bosc, Bartlett, or Anjou) by peeling them while keeping the stems attached. Add the pears into the simmering liquid.

2. 2

   Begin by removing the small blossom end from each pear before placing them in a gentle sugar syrup simmer. If necessary, add additional water to ensure the pears are fully submerged. Allow the pears to cook for 15 to 40 minutes, adjusting based on their variety and ripeness, until they reach a tender and translucent texture without becoming too soft. To check for doneness, use a sharp paring knife at the thickest part of the pear. Once cooked, remove from heat and allow them to cool. These poached pears can be served either warm or chilled with some of the reduced or unaltered poaching liquid drizzled over the top.

3. 3

   Place the cooked dish in the poaching liquid and refrigerate until ready to serve.

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• Cultural note

  This dish is reminiscent of traditional poached fruit desserts found in various cuisines around the world. Poaching fruit in syrup has a long history and is often associated with elegant and comforting dessert traditions.

• Seasonal note

  Pears are typically in season from late summer to early fall, making this dish ideal to prepare during those months when pears are at their freshest and most flavorful.

• Health note

  Sweet Simmered Pears in Syrup is a relatively low-fat dessert option that is high in carbohydrates and sugar. Pears are a good source of fiber, providing 4g per serving, and they also contain Vitamin C for immune support.