Maple Ginger Poached Pears

7 steps

• Peel the pears.
• Combine water, maple syrup, ginger root, and cardamom in a heavy saucepan. Stir frequently over medium heat until just begins to bubble. Turn the heat down to low.
• Place the pears in the saucepan and cover.
• Cook on low until the pears are tender, about 20 minutes. Occasionally spoon the liquid over the pears. Turn the pears over after about 10 minutes.
• The pears are done when they are very tender when pierced with a knife.
• Remove pears from the saucepan and place on a serving plate.
• Cook the remaining liquid on low, with saucepan uncovered, until it slightly thickens. Drizzle the liquid over the pears.

Tips:
Pears that are just ripe but not overripe work best.

Press a large piece of parchment paper over the pears while poaching to keep them from rising above the liquid.

Serving suggestions (not included in nutrition analysis):
- Serve with a small scoop of ice cream or a dollop of coconut cream.

- Top with toasted hazelnuts or walnuts or sliced crystallized ginger.