Unwind before bed with a delightful and healthy treat. These Chamomile Poached Pears offer a subtly sweet, warm dessert perfect for a relaxing evening, making them an ideal healthy bedtime snack. This easy recipe helps you create a comforting dish with minimal effort.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Pears: Bosc or Anjou pears work best due to their firm texture.
- Chamomile Tea Bags: Use good quality herbal chamomile tea for the best flavor. Loose leaf chamomile can also be used.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener. Honey or agave nectar are good alternatives.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 firm pears (such as Bosc or Anjou)
- 2 cups water
- 2 chamomile tea bags
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: a pinch of ground cinnamon or a star anise pod
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 180-200 calories
- Tools Needed: Medium saucepan, vegetable peeler, small sharp knife
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pears
Carefully peel your pears, leaving the stems intact. Then, using a small sharp knife or melon baller, core the bottom of each pear, removing the seeds while keeping the pear whole.
2. Steep the Chamomile Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the water, chamomile tea bags, and maple syrup. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. If you’re using optional spices like cinnamon or star anise, add them now.
3. Poach the Pears
Once the liquid is simmering, carefully place the prepared pears into the saucepan. Ensure they are mostly submerged. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the pears gently poach for about 20-25 minutes.
4. Check for Tenderness
The pears are ready when they are fork-tender but still hold their shape. You should be able to easily insert a fork into the pear with slight resistance.
5. Finish and Serve
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract. You can serve the pears warm immediately with some of the poaching liquid, or let them cool slightly. This healthy bedtime snack is perfect for a cozy evening.
Variation Ideas:
- Citrus Zest: Add a strip of orange or lemon zest to the poaching liquid for a bright note.
- Ginger Infusion: Include a few thin slices of fresh ginger in the liquid for a subtle spicy kick.
- Nut Topping: Sprinkle with a few crushed pistachios or almonds after poaching for added texture.
- Herbal Boost: Experiment with other calming herbal teas like lavender or lemon balm in place of or in addition to chamomile.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Chamomile Poached Pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a little of their poaching liquid, or enjoy them chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use any type of pear?
Bosc or Anjou pears are recommended because they hold their shape well when cooked. Softer pears might become mushy.
Is this truly a healthy bedtime snack?
Yes, chamomile is known for its calming properties, and pears provide natural sweetness and fiber, making this a great light and healthy option before bed.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Poached pears are excellent when made in advance and allowed to chill, allowing the flavors to meld further.
What if I don’t have maple syrup?
You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave nectar, adjusting to your preferred level of sweetness.
How do I know when the pears are perfectly poached?
The pears are done when they are tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork but still maintain their structural integrity and don’t fall apart.
Can I add other spices to the poaching liquid?
Yes, a pinch of cardamom, a star anise pod, or a cinnamon stick would be delicious additions to enhance the flavor profile.
