Everyday recipes, explained simply.

Spiced Poached Pears

Whole pears gently poached in a spiced syrup until glossy and tender.

By The Food Gene Updated

  • Under an hour
  • Beginner
  • Vegan
  • Gluten-free
Prep
10 mins
Cook
40 mins
Serves
4
Level
Beginner
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Poached pears and blackberries on a plate

An elegant pudding that is quick to make and even better made ahead.

Firm pears keep their shape best.

Ingredients

Serves 4

Method

  1. Make the syrup

    Heat the water, sugar, orange peel and spices in a pan just big enough for the pears, until the sugar dissolves.

  2. Poach

    Add the pears, cover with a circle of baking paper and simmer gently for 25–30 minutes until a knife slides in easily.

    Timer: 28:00

  3. Reduce

    Lift out the pears and boil the syrup for 10 minutes until slightly thick. Pour over the pears.

    Timer: 10:00

  4. Serve

    Serve warm, or chill and serve cold.

Questions about this recipe

Which pears work best?

Firm, slightly underripe pears such as Conference or Williams. Very ripe pears fall apart.