Name: Poached Pears with Spiced Caramel Sauce
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 4 1/2 hr
Yield: Makes 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 juice oranges; 1 lemon, halved; 8 cups water; 2 cups granulated sugar; 6 firm-ripe Anjou pears; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1 whole clove; 5 cardamom pods; 1/4 teaspoon fennel seeds; 1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns; 2 (3-inch) cinnamon sticks; 3 tablespoons chopped toasted almonds or hazelnuts

Image may contain Plant Food Hot Dog Fruit and Pear

Poached Pears with Spiced Caramel SauceQuentin Bacon

Poaching time for pears will vary, depending on their firmness.

Cooks' notes:

• You can poach pears 2 days ahead and chill, covered, in poaching liquid. Bring pears to room temperature before serving.

• Sauce may be made 2 days ahead and chilled, covered. Reheat to warm before serving.

Recipe notes

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