Poached Pears in White Wine: A Delectable Dessert Delight
Hark! As I set forth to pen down this recipe, I must ask – what could be more satisfying than a warm, velvety poached pear dessert on a cold winter’s evening? The aroma of vanilla and cinnamon mingling with the delicate sweetness of pears poached in white wine is enough to make one’s mouth water. Friends, let me tell you that this recipe for Pears Poached in White Wine is the epitome of winter elegance. It is simple yet sophisticated, easy to make yet extravagant in its taste.
I must confess that I have always had a soft spot for poached fruit desserts – they are light and refreshing while also being touchingly comforting. In this recipe, ripe pears are poached to perfection in a mixture of white wine and sugar, which results in the most tender and flavourful poached pears imaginable. Whether enjoyed on their own or accompanied by a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream, these wine-poached delights are sure to impress your guests (or simply indulge your own senses).
So, gather the ingredients listed below and join me as we embark on an exquisite culinary journey through the world of wine-poached pears – and believe me when I say, it will be worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oh, dear foodies, thou art in for a treat! The recipe that I possess at hand is nothing short of culinary magic. The divine combination of pears and white wine poached together will leave your taste buds spellbound.
Imagine biting into a delicate and juicy pear soaked in the aromatic and flavorful essence of white wine, vanilla, cinnamon stick, and lemon juice. Each bite releasing a burst of lusciousness in your mouth that is nothing short of extraordinary.
This recipe is the epitome of fine dining and an experience to cherish. Its simplicity lies in the few ingredients it requires, yet its complexity lies in how they blend seamlessly to create a delicious and indulgent dessert that will be unforgettable.
Trust me when I say this; once you try these wine-poached pears, you will never want to go back to any other dessert. It is pure decadence on a plate! So, pull up your apron strings and try out this recipe, and be prepared to have your taste buds whisked away on an adventure like no other.
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need for this delicious white wine poached pears recipe:
- 4 medium pears, preferably Bartlett or Bosc, peeled and cored with a melon baller or vegetable peeler
- 3 cups dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio
- 2 cups water
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped or 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Gather the Ingredients
The main ingredients you’ll need to make these succulent poached pears in white wine are 4-6 ripe pears, preferably medium-sized, white wine (3 cups), water (2 cups), sugar (3/4 cup), lemon juice (1-2 tbsp), vanilla extract (1 tsp), and a cinnamon stick (1-2). To give the poached pears an extra twist of flavour, add a vanilla bean or cardamom pods for an aromatic dash. These spices elevate this dessert to fine dining standards.
Step 2: Prepare the Pears
Once you have gathered all the ingredients, begin by washing and peeling the pears. Use a vegetable peeler or a melon baller to peel them. Core the pears with an apple corer, making sure that you don’t damage the bottom of the fruit. The peeled and cored pears should be placed upright in a large saucepan that holds all of them snugly.
Step 3: Heat the Liquid
Next, add the white wine, two cups of water, and sugar in another large saucepan. Stir well and bring it to a boil. Once the mixture has reached boiling point, reduce heat and let it simmer until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 4: Add Flavourings
Add lemon juice and vanilla extract or scraped vanilla beans into the simmering liquid mixture along with cinnamon sticks or cardamom pods. If using cardamom pods, crush them first to release their aroma. Stir gently then let it simmer again for about five minutes.
Step 5: Poach Pears
Carefully pour this sweet mixture over your pears, enough to cover them. Slowly bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer; cover and cook for 20-30 minutes or until the pears are soft when tested with a toothpick.
Step 6: Let Cool, Then Serve
Remove your wine-poached pears from heat, and let them cool in the liquid to further infuse flavours. Once cool, transfer your poached pears into your dessert plates with a slotted spoon. Drizzle some of the poaching liquid over each pear just before serving. For added flavour try garnishing the top of the pear with a sprinkle of cinnamon powder or a sprig of lavender. These poached pears will taste great on their own, served warm or cold. You may serve them alongside fruit or ice cream or with coconut cream for an even more indulgent option. This pear dessert recipe is perfect for anytime you crave something sweet and fruity but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen baking.
Substitutions and Variations
Verily, there are many substitutions and variations that one can gratefully make to this recipe of wine-poached pears. Shall I impart some wise counsel upon thee for inspiration?
Firstly, if thou dost not have white wine at thy disposal, thou mayest use red wine instead. The color of the poached pears may be changed, but the taste shall remain divine.
Moreover, thou mayest also add additional spices to the poaching liquid to give the pears a more complex flavor profile. Consider adding cardamom pods or lavender to infuse their aroma into the fruit.
If thou preferest a sweeter poaching liquid, either replace some or all of the sugar with honey or even use caster sugar instead.
For those who love vanilla, purchase vanilla sugar or substitute a tablespoon of vanilla extract for the scraped seeds from a vanilla bean.
Finally, there are endless possibilities for garnishes and serving options. Accompany these wine-poached pears with ice cream or coconut cream for an indulgent dessert treat, or sprinkle with toasted nuts for a savory crunch. Baked pears also make an excellent addition to pies and tarts. The choice is yours!
Serving and Pairing
To serve the wine poached pears, place them in a shallow bowl and pour some of the poaching liquid over them. This liquid is quite flavorful, so don’t discard it; instead, let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The poaching syrup can also be reduced to make a delicious sauce that can be used as a topping for ice cream or cake.
These white wine poached pears are truly a decadent dessert that would pair perfectly with a crisp, light-bodied white wine such as Pinot Grigio. If you prefer red wines, you may opt for a fruity red like Tempranillo. The aromatic spices such as cinnamon and cardamom also perfectly complement lavender, so it might be worth trying a sparkling wine infused with lavender essence.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing these poached pears with coconut cream, fruit or baked pears. These options only serve to emphasize just how versatile this dessert really is. Whether served on its own or alongside other items for fine dining or not, this dish is sure to delight your guests with its rich flavors and elegant presentation.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Fear not, for these wine-poached pears can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Simply allow them to cool completely after poaching before transferring them to an airtight container to store in the refrigerator.
If you’d like to enjoy the pears warm, remove them from the fridge and let them come to room temperature first. Alternatively, you can reheat them gently on the stove or in a microwave, being careful not to overcook them and turn them into mush. To reheat, simply place the desired amount of pears plus some of their poaching liquid into a saucepan on low heat and cook until warmed through.
It’s worth noting that if you’re planning on making this recipe ahead of time for a special dinner party or gathering, definitely make sure to test it out beforehand! You don’t want any surprises on your big day.
These poached pears are also versatile when it comes to serving – they’re delicious on their own as a simple yet elegant dessert, but can also be paired with vanilla ice cream or coconut cream for some added indulgence. For a unique twist, try adding some lavender or cardamom pods to the poaching liquid for an aromatic touch. No matter what variation you choose, these wine-poached pears are sure to impress your guests with their flavor and fine dining presentation.
Tips for Perfect Results
A key to perfect results in the poached pears recipe using white wine is selecting ripe but firm pear fruits. Using overripe or too-firm fruits will affect the texture of the finished product significantly. It is best to use pears that give a slight pressure when held instead of those that are hard as rocks or mushy.
Moreover, when peeling the pears, a vegetable peeler is more effective than a paring knife. The latter often removes some flesh on the fruit during skin removal, making the finished product uneven. Once the fruits are peeled, use a melon baller to core it, taking care not to remove excessive amounts of flesh as well.
When selecting a dry white wine for this recipe, consider one with bright acidity and subtle fruit flavors. Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, for instance, are popular choices and work great in this recipe. Furthermore, adding cardamom pods or lavender during poaching can exacerbate the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Another helpful tip for achieving great results is to avoid bringing the poaching liquid to a rolling boil after adding sugar and vanilla extract. Boiling the mixture too hard and too long can cause scorching and overcooking of the pears while dissolving too little sugar.
Finally, when storing leftovers, put them in an airtight container with just enough liquid to cover them entirely. This will protect them from getting exposed to air that would speed up deterioration while simultaneously retaining their softness.
By following these tips and techniques, you’ll be sure to get perfectly poached pears in white wine every time!
FAQ
Before we move on to the FAQ section, let’s gather some quick facts. The pears poached in white wine recipe is a classic continental dessert which is elegant enough for fine dining, yet simple enough for a cozy dinner at home. Ripe pears that are poached to perfection and infused with sweet and aromatic white wine flavors can instantly transport you to a world of luxury. Let’s now take a minute to answer some common queries about this dessert that will help you make it with ease.
Should pears be peeled before poaching?
When poaching pears, it’s essential to get rid of their skin to avoid any unpleasant bitter taste, thanks to the presence of tannins in the skin. To prepare the pear for poaching, use a sharp paring knife or a vegetable peeler to peel off the skin. Afterward, cut it in half lengthwise, taking the seeds out using a small spoon or melon baller.
Do you cover pears when poaching?
To cook the pears, gently place them into the boiling liquid and put a circular parchment paper on top, ensuring to make a small hole in the center for ventilation. The pears should be simmered on low heat until they are soft and well-cooked, which usually takes around 10 to 25 minutes, depending on the type of pear.
How ripe should pears be for poaching?
To ensure a perfect poached pear, it’s crucial to opt for slightly ripe and firm pears. Overripe ones will turn mushy, ruining the dish, so be sure to choose the right ones. For an elegant-looking poached pear, leave the stem intact and use a melon baller to carefully core from the bottom end.
Why do you poach pears?
In my opinion, poached pears are not only delightful as a standalone dessert but also make an incredible addition to baked goods, such as quick breads, muffins, cakes, and pies. By poaching these fruits before using them in baking, they acquire a rich and aromatic flavor while also ensuring that they don’t come out undercooked or overcooked.
How long do wine poached pears last in the fridge?
Poached pears are a delightful dessert made by gently simmering the fruit in liquid with various warm spices until it reaches a tender yet firm texture. They can either be garnished with other ingredients for an elegant presentation or refrigerated for consumption at any time within five days.
How to cook white pears?
Gently arrange the pears into the hot liquid and increase the heat to a moderate-low level until it boils. Once it has reached a simmer, cover the top with a round piece of parchment paper and cook for about 20-30 minutes or until a knife can be easily inserted into the fruits.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, these White Wine Poached Pears are a delightful and elegant dessert that is sure to impress your guests. The tender pears infused with the flavors of white wine, vanilla, and cinnamon will have your taste buds dancing with joy. This recipe is perfect for fine dining, special occasions or maybe just an ordinary day when you want something extra special.
The beauty of this dish extends beyond its elegance and mouthwatering taste. It is also incredibly versatile – you can choose the type of white wine to use according to your preference to create different flavor profiles. You can also switch up the spices or add new toppings like coconut cream or ice cream to personalize it even further.
Not only is this recipe low-effort with only a few simple steps, but it can also be prepared in advance, stored and reheated easily without losing any flavor or texture. It’s truly a recipe that keeps on giving!
In summary, I highly recommend this recipe for those keen on baked or poached fruit desserts. These White Wine Poached Pears are a must-try for anyone seeking a delicacy that delights in both taste and aesthetic appeal. Don’t hesitate! Head out and grab the listed ingredients so you can experiment with this delicious recipe.
Pears Poached in White Wine Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups sweet white wine (we use moscato)
- 3 1/2 cups water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 4 pears
- 2 cups sugar
Instructions
- In a pot, combine all ingredients except the pears. Bring to the boil.
- While the liquid is boiling, peel the pears and cut them in half from top to bottom.
- Use a paring knife to core the pears.
- When liquid is boiling, add pears, return to boiling, then simmer until tender but not mushy. This will depend on the pears you choose and how ripe they are. Start with about 5-8 minutes, but be aware that it may take much longer (when I use bosc pears that aren't quite ripe yet it can take half an hour or more).
- Remove the pears, increase the heat, and reduce the liquid by half.
- Spoon the reduced liquid over the pears and top with homemade whipped cream (use recipe # 80157).