Poached Pears with Chocolate Sauce and Vanilla Ice Cream

Poached Pears Belle Helene is a classic French dessert that combines tender poached pears with rich chocolate sauce and creamy vanilla ice cream. This elegant dessert is perfect for a dinner party or special occasion and is sure to impress your guests. The pears are gently simmered in a sweet syrup flavored with vanilla and lemon, until they are soft and infused with all the delicious flavors. The chocolate sauce adds a luxurious touch, and when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it creates a heavenly dessert that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe pears
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 pint vanilla ice cream
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds, toasted (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Peel the pears, leaving the stem intact. Cut a small slice off the bottom of each pear so that they stand upright.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the water, lemon juice, sugar, vanilla bean seeds, and the scraped pod. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Reduce the heat to low and add the pears. Cover and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until the pears are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove the pears from the poaching liquid and set aside to cool.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the chocolate sauce. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to steam. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. To serve, place a poached pear in a dessert dish. Drizzle with the chocolate sauce and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Sprinkle with chopped almonds, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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