Poached Pears in Red Wine

This is a really pretty dessert, because the pears get a red blush from the wine.

• Ready In: 34 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 (750 ml) bottle red wine, I like merlot, a good label (if you wouldn't drink it, don't cook with it)
• 3⁄4 cup  superfine sugar
• 3  tablespoons honey
• 1⁄2  lemon, juice of
• 1  cinnamon stick
• 1  vanilla bean, split lengthwise
• 2  inches  piece  orange rind
• 1  clove
• 1  black peppercorns
• 4  firm ripe pears
•  whipped cream or  sour cream, to serve

Directions

1. Place the wine, sugar, honey, lemon juice, cinnamon stick, vanilla bean, orange rind, clove and peppercorn in a saucepan just large enough to hold the pears standing upright. Heat gently, stirring occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved.
2. Meanwhile, peel the pears, leaving the stem intact. Take a thin slice off the bottom of each pear to keep it standing upright.
3. Place the pears in the wine mixture, then simmer uncovered for 20-35 minutes depending on size and ripeness, until the pears are just tender; be careful not to overcook.
4. Carefully transfer the pears to a bowl, using a slotted spoon. Continue to boil the poaching liquid until reduced bu about half. Let cool, then strain the cooled liquid over the pears and chill for at least 3 hours.
5. Place the pears in four individual serving dishes and spoon a little of the red wine syrup over them. Serve with whipped cream or sour cream.