These poached pears are especially luscious with their Pacific Rim accent. Locally grown, in-season, organic pears are far superior for this slow-cooked dessert than store-bought fruit shipped from far away.

　　

Ingredients

serves 4

　　3 cups water

　　2 cinnamon sticks

　　2 allspice berries

　　One 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced

　　1 2/3 cup sugar

　　4 very firm pears, sliced in half lengthwise and seeded

　　

Step 1

Add the water, cinnamon, allspice, ginger, and sugar to the slow cooker and cook on high for 1 hour.

　　

Step 2

Remove and discard the spices and ginger. Place the pear halves in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours, until the pears are just tender when pierced with a fork. Turn carefully once or twice during the cooking to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.

　　

Step 3

To serve, place the pears on a serving platter or individual plates and spoon the poaching liquid over the top. Serve piping hot or chilled.

　　Cooks' Note

　　Suggested Beverage: Try a Zinfandel port with this.

　　The Gourmet Slow Cooker: Volume II