Ginger and Cinnamon Poached Pears

- Suitable for diets:
- Dairy-Free
- Gluten Free
- Heart-Healthy
- Low-Fat
- Low-Sodium
- Paleo
Why Diabetes Friendly?
- Low Glycemic Fruit: Pears have a moderate glycemic index, and when poached without added sugar, they are gentle on blood sugar levels.
- Minimal Sweeteners: Option to sweeten lightly with honey or stevia helps keep the recipe low in sugar.
- Anti-Inflammatory Spices: Ginger and cinnamon can help reduce inflammation and may support healthy blood sugar levels, making them beneficial for individuals with diabetes.
- High in Fibre: Pears contain fibre, which aids in slowing the absorption of sugar and promoting better blood sugar control.
Equipment
- saucepan
Ingredients
- pears (Bosc or Anjou, firm, peeled, stems intact) 4
- water 3 cups
- ginger (fresh, peeled and thinly sliced) 1 inch
- cinnamon 1 stick
- whole cloves 3
- vanilla 1 tsp
- honey ( or a pinch of stevia (optional) adjust to taste) 2 tsp
- lemon zest (or a few thin slices of lemon) 1 pinch
Cooking Tips
- Choose Firm Pears: Firmer varieties like Bosc or Anjou hold their shape well during poaching, creating a beautiful presentation.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Taste the poaching liquid and adjust sweetness minimally, as the natural sweetness of pears intensifies when cooked.
- Reduce for Added Flavour: Simmer the poaching liquid after removing the pears for a thicker, more concentrated syrup to drizzle over for extra flavour.
- Serve Warm or Chilled: These pears can be served warm with the poaching liquid or chilled for a refreshing dessert.
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine water, ginger slices, cinnamon stick, cloves, vanilla and a bit of honey or stevia, if desired. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.3 cups water, 1 inch ginger, 1 stick cinnamon, 3 whole cloves, 1 tsp vanilla, 2 tsp honey
- Place the peeled pears in the poaching liquid. Cover and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork. Turn the pears occasionally to ensure even cooking.4 pears
- Once the pears are tender, remove them from the saucepan. Optionally, continue simmering the poaching liquid for a few extra minutes to reduce slightly for a more concentrated flavour.
- Place pears in bowls, drizzle a bit of the reduced poaching liquid over each pear, and garnish with fresh lemon zest.1 pinch lemon zest
Notes
FAQ
Can I use a different fruit for this recipe?
Yes, apples work well in place of pears and poach in a similar amount of time.How long can I store the poached pears?
Poached pears can be stored in their liquid in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Is it okay to skip the sweetener?
Absolutely, the pears will have a natural sweetness, especially if they’re ripe, and the spices add depth of flavour without needing extra sweetness.Can I add other spices?
Yes, star anise or cardamom pods would add a unique flavour to the poaching liquid.How can I make the poaching liquid into a syrup?
Simply continue simmering until the liquid reduces by about half, creating a thicker, more syrupy consistency for drizzling.
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