Instructions
1
Prep Pears: Peel the pears, leaving the stem intact for presentation. Slice a tiny horizontal bit off the bottom so they can stand upright.
2
Make Broth: In a saucepan deep enough to hold the pears upright, combine water, sugar/honey, spices, orange peel, and the loose tea (in a bag or infuser). Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.
3
Poach: Gently lower the pears into the liquid. Cover and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes. They are done when a knife slides easily into the flesh.
4
Reduce Syrup: Remove the pears with a slotted spoon and set aside. Remove the tea bag. Turn the heat up to high and boil the remaining liquid for 10-15 minutes until it reduces into a thick syrup.
5
Serve: Place each pear in a bowl. Drizzle generously with the warm tea syrup. Serve with a dollop of yogurt or ice cream.
Expert Tip: Choosing Your Oolong
Not all Oolongs are the same. For this recipe, avoid the green, floral "light" Oolongs (like Tie Guan Yin). Instead, use a Dark Roasted Oolong (like Da Hong Pao or Wuyi Rock Tea). The woody, roasted notes stand up much better to the spices and sugar.
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