Mulled Pomegranate Cider Poached Pears

This vegan recipe combines the sweetness of ripe pears with the tartness of pomegranate juice and the warmth of mulled spices. Perfect for a cozy dessert or a festive holiday treat.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized ripe pears, peeled and cored
• 2 cups pomegranate juice
• 1 cup apple cider
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 whole cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Zest of 1 orange

Instructions:

Put the apple cider, cinnamon stick, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, maple syrup, lemon juice, and orange zest in a medium-sized pot

Over medium-low heat, bring the mixture to a simmer

Stir it every now and then until the maple syrup is completely gone

Put the peeled and cored pears in the pot and make sure they are covered with water

Lower the heat to low and let the pears simmer slowly for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are soft but still hold their shape

To make sure they cook evenly, flip them over every now and then

When the pears are done, use a slotted spoon to take them out of the liquid and place them on plates to serve

Use a fine mesh sieve to get rid of the spices and zest from the poaching liquid

Add the water back to the pot

Turn up the heat to medium-high and cook the liquid for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until it gets a little thicker and syrupy

Pour the syrup that has been boiled down over the poached pears and serve hot

If you want, you can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or fresh pomegranate arils on top before serving