When it comes to poaching fruit the options are endless and one that brings huge satisfaction.  Some fruits are better poached than others, peaches, apricots and pears come to life once again from poaching.  Always use good quality fruit, be gentle and ensure the fruit is cooked!

For this recipe I am using pears as they are in season and perfect for poaching - obviously change fruit to suit season.

1 litre water 1 1/3 cup (265 g) sugar 4 pears, peeled, cored, and quartered

Additions: One cinnamon stick, 2 teaspoons whole cloves, black peppercorns or allspice berries, one lemon half, one split vanilla bean, 2-3 star anise, 6-8 fresh ginger slices

Method

In a large saucepan, heat the water and sugar until warm and the sugar is dissolved. Add any of the additions that you wish.

Slide in the pears and cover with a round of greaseproof paper, with a small hole cut in the center.

Keep the liquid at a very low boil and simmer the pears until cooked through, 15 to 25 minutes, depending on the pears.