Dish

Poires au vin

Poires au vin is a simple yet elegant dessert that is perfect for entertaining. The pears are poached in a mixture of red wine, sugar, cinnamon, and cloves until they are tender and infused with flavor. The resulting dessert is sweet, juicy, and bursting with flavor. This dish is typically served with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

European cuisine› Western European cuisine› French cuisine

Dessert

Origins and history

Poires au vin has been a popular dessert in France for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Burgundy region of France, where red wine is a staple ingredient in many dishes. The dish was traditionally served as a dessert during the winter months, when pears were in season and red wine was readily available.

Dietary considerations

This dish is not suitable for individuals who are allergic to pears or red wine. It is also not suitable for individuals who are avoiding alcohol.

Variations

There are many variations of poires au vin, including using white wine instead of red wine, adding orange zest or juice to the poaching liquid, or using different spices such as star anise or cardamom.

Presentation and garnishing

To present this dish, place the poached pears in a shallow bowl or plate and drizzle with the poaching liquid. Top with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of cinnamon.

Tips & Tricks

To ensure that the pears are evenly poached, make sure that they are fully submerged in the poaching liquid and turn them occasionally during the cooking process.