Poires Au Vin Rouge (Pears in Red Wine)

Poires au vin rouge, or pears in red wine, is a classic French dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe pears with the rich and robust flavors of red wine. This elegant and simple dessert has been enjoyed for centuries and is a perfect way to end a meal on a sweet note. The combination of tender, juicy pears and the warm, spiced flavors of red wine creates a decadent and indulgent treat that is sure to impress any dinner guest.

Poires Au Vin Rouge (Pears in Red Wine)
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Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

45 mins

Additional Time:

4 hrs

Total Time:

5 hrs

Servings:

6

Yield:

6 servings

Ingredients

3 cups red wine
1 cup white sugar
2 cinnamon sticks
4 whole cloves
1 strip orange zest
1 teaspoon fennel seed (Optional)
3 whole black peppercorns (Optional)
2 bay leaves (Optional)
6 large firm pears

Directions

Step 1

Combine the red wine, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, orange zest, fennel seed, peppercorns, and bay leaves in a large saucepan. Peel the pears, and remove the cores from the bottom, leaving the stems intact; set aside. Bring the wine to a boil over high heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Add the pears, return to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low, and continue simmering until tender, about 25 minutes.

Step 2

Remove the pears from the wine syrup, cover, and refrigerate until cold. Strain the syrup through a mesh sieve, and discard the spices. Simmer the syrup over medium heat until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon. Refrigerate the syrup until cold.

Step 3

Once the syrup is cold, pour over the pears, cover, and chill at least 2 hours before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

359

Calories

0g

Fat

71g

Carbs

1g

Protein

Complement

The pears are poached in a mixture of red wine, sugar, and warm spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, which infuses the fruit with a deep, complex flavor. The pears are then served alongside a generous drizzle of the reduced red wine sauce, creating a stunning presentation that is as beautiful as it is delicious. This dessert is often served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, adding a creamy and cooling element that balances out the richness of the wine-poached pears. Whether served at a fancy dinner party or enjoyed on a cozy night in, poires au vin rouge is a delightful and sophisticated dessert that is sure to please any palate.