Maple-Poached Pears

I was having coffee with friends last week when I met someone who said “I have so many pears. Can you share a recipe that uses pears?” I told her I would so here it is! 

It’s a pretty simple recipe and is from my “ Wake Up and Smell the Coffee” cookbook, one of my favorites. It can be used as a fruit for breakfast or for dessert.

Maple-Poached Pears:
6-8 pears, peeled, cored and cut into quarters
1 cup maple syrup (the real thing is the best)
1/2 cup orange juice
Juice from half a small lemon
Rind from half of an orange, cut into julienne strips, with all white removed.
Fresh mint, chopped, optional

Combine all ingredients, except the mint, in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until pears are tender.

Cool slightly. Pour into a glass serving bowl or individual dishes. Garnish with mint. Can garnish with a dollop of whipped topping .

Serves 4-6