This recipe is versatile. You can use any firm-flesh pears or apples—or a combination; just be sure the size of the fruits you use is uniform. You can also try another dry whole spice (such as cinnamon or cloves) in place of the star anise.
Recipe information
Yield
serves 4
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut 4 pieces of parchment paper to measure 12 inches square each. Juice the lemon into a small bowl. Halve each pear horizontally. Dip the cut sides of the pears in the lemon juice (to prevent browning). Using a melon baller, remove the core from each half.
Step 2
Place 1 star anise in the cored center of each pear half. Drizzle 1 tablespoon honey over each star anise.
Step 3
Place 1 pear half, cut side up, on each piece of paper. Working with one at a time, hold a pear half in paper in the palm of your hand; gather the edges of the paper around the fruit with your free hand. Transfer to a rimmed baking sheet.
Step 4
Pour 1 tablespoon vermouth into each pear half in parchment. Twist the paper tightly around the top of each fruit to seal. Bake 45 minutes; the pears should be tender. Transfer the packets to shallow bowls. Serve immediately, opening the packets at the table.
