Name: Delicious Flambéed Vanilla Poached Pears with Apricot Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 4 ripe but firm pears; 2 cups water; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise; 1/4 cup brandy or rum; 1 cup apricot preserves; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder

Indulge in a delectable dessert with these flambeed vanilla poached pears. The tender pears are infused with a rich vanilla flavor and then flambéed for a delightful twist. Drizzle them with a homemade apricot sauce to add a tangy and sweet finish. This elegant dessert is perfect for special occasions or a fancy dinner party. Enjoy the combination of the tender texture of the pears and the delightful flavors that will surely impress your guests.

Ingredients

4 ripe but firm pears
2 cups water
1 cup granulated sugar
1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
1/4 cup brandy or rum
1 cup apricot preserves
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder

Directions

Peel the pears, leaving the stems intact. Cut a small slice off the bottom of each pear so they can stand upright.
In a large saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and vanilla bean. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Add the pears to the saucepan, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork. Turn the pears occasionally to ensure even poaching.
Once the pears are tender, remove them from the poaching liquid and set aside.
In a small saucepan, heat the brandy or rum over low heat until warmed.
Carefully ignite the brandy or rum using a long matchstick or lighter. Tilt the saucepan slightly to catch the flames. Allow the flames to burn until they extinguish naturally or carefully cover the pan to smother the flames.
Pour the flambéed brandy or rum over the poached pears and let them soak for a few minutes.
In a separate saucepan, combine the apricot preserves, lemon juice, and cinnamon powder. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through and slightly thickened.
To serve, place a poached pear on a dessert plate and drizzle it with the warm apricot sauce.
Garnish with a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Interesting Facts

Flambéing is a cooking technique that involves adding alcohol to a hot pan and igniting it. The flames not only create a stunning visual display but also enhance the flavor of the dish.

Poaching the pears in a vanilla-infused syrup adds a delicate fragrance and complements the natural sweetness of the fruit.

Apricot sauce adds a burst of tangy flavor to balance the sweetness of the pears. It can also be used as a topping for other desserts like ice cream or pancakes.